The words people are speaking

are filled with terror and guilt.

Terror is new, getting too near.

The guilt piece has been studied.

We are forever lost in our words.

I was taught to ‘use your words.‘

They’re not good enough now.

I can’t be guaranteed any solace.

Instead I find ways to stay alert.

Our little community, a shadow.

A nation of onlookers cannot

find a way to listen to fear.

Instead we write poems and shit.