If words could free the missing

from the perils of their unknown pain

we might see the streets filled again

with laughter, children, delightful screams.

If words could free the lonely

longing stares in sideways mirrors,

drifting time zones, hurtful glances

might dissipate with passion in our hearts

If words could free the angry

we might see less of the fury

of disconnected families; of nations

wondering why it became so ugly

If words could free the back alley argument,

the ones where people yell

long before they ever understand

we might know a different sort of peace

If words could free the ignorant mind

that seeks to destroy their neighbor

for the color of their skin, we might

then know the reality of humanity.

If words could free the politics

of living with our own beliefs,

then maybe someday we might

understand the human condition.

If words could free we might know love.