The Same

I miss the wind and rain

since moving south.

When every day feels like the same

words running through my mouth.

I miss the fresh air that fills

my lungs with oxygen & hope,

that makes me yearn for space &

countryside.

Where I see no folk and no longer

have to choke.

Walking polluted streets

where people look tired & grey

and children have little room to play.

Where travelling on public transport

costs too much

and energy companies think its ok

to rip us off.

And we just sit back & take it.

Feel our words have no clout.

Feel we cannot get angry or shout

against the misuse of power.

That keeps so many people out.

But words always have the power

to plant a seed.

That can speak out against greed.

So don’t forget our forefathers & sisters

hard earned fights.

To establish what is just & right.

So don’t just sit back & do nothing

Or be selfish and say

Well I’m alright.

And turn a blind eye to other

people’s plight.

Otherwise what’s the point in

being inspired by Mandela & Luther King.

if their words don’t sink in.

And we continue to put up & shut up

when we know things have to change

otherwise things will stay the same.

Peaceful protests are just & right.

Use your pen and your voices to

fight.

Why don’t you ask Rosa Parks if

one person can make a difference?

Otherwise things will stay the same.

Written by Liesl Duffy, 2012.