All Lives Matter | I.M. Golden

You awake one night, your home in flames The neighbors too, wake and see You cry frantic for all the water The neighborhood agrees Your life’s effort, memories are being swallowed by the fire Your neighbors you beseech for help and they come, but only to admire “Oh, what a shame…”, “Look how it burns…” “It’s getting even hotter…” “We too are hurt and concerned by this and like you, are anxious for water” Eventually, some water comes You start to feel relief The neighbors set their hands to work, but each one becomes a thief They take the water meant for you and say it’s meant for all They douse their homes, their cars, and gardens, so passionately enthralled with the problem of fire. “It affects us all…!” You plead, “But my home’s the one in flames!” They say, “True, but ours could burn too, so the need is basically the same.” You protest the inequity They say that’s no good “It’s not about your house, per se; it’s about the neighborhood.” “But don’t worry—your home matters too, so we offer you this cup. With this, some grit, and long, hard work it should just be enough” “And be grateful—the cup, the water, your home is here by our goodwill We’ve done you such big favors, now you’ve obligations to fulfill.” “It’s enough you’ve raised awareness, even brought us unity. Now let us think together how to improve our community.” “Perhaps a pond or fountain… Maybe we should have fire classes… Better yet: a holiday where we make crafts from ashes…” Lively discussions had while each neighbor heads home with no concern Boxes checked, the work is done Never a harder victory earned They claim they’ve saved the neighborhood while your home continues to burn.