Equations

He enlisted you
with shouts
of

Freedom!

And you took the bait in one
Gasping breath.
Yes!

Words to hide the tortuous
ways
In which freedom is gained
Or lost

Depending on your
pigmentation,
accents
and affectations
education,
gender identification
Or lack
of
Love and acceptance.

Because you are afraid of
losing,
Beat and berate the
world
for your freedom

To speak, shoot, shit where
you want
On others’
Dreams
Existence
Persistence.

Making another
< less than
Does not make you
> greater than.

The simple equation —
Loving actions beget
Love
Safety
Soul-nourishing purpose in
This life.

And I speak directly to you
My friend who churches and
preys
Whose actions diminish
and hate.

I’ve heard your code words
and the rebel yell of
freedom!
that you cry in your sleep
The conflict squished in your
Gut
Drying mouth
Vile
Bile simmering.

A correct equation =
You make others less than
and yourself in turn.

New paradigm!
Save yourself by saving;
Loving others
Is true freedom.

And if I could
Love you
enough

to start,

to love yourself,

I do

I do.