continuation

continuation © Tim Hoe 2004

we keep our distance from events
which have been our darkest moments
and seen so recently
if not in our own lives
then not so very many years ago

it's only four generations
since women could vote
it's only four hundred years
since slaves were in boats
the forts are still here
with their white walls
and their churches

this was changed by resistance
that did not go unseen
because change was essential
because change was in need
where would we be now
if change hadn't started

there is no difference
between us and the world we create
without our actions nothing moves
and nothing changes

betrayed and distracted
two poles force us down
accumulation - destruction
hollow us
stain the ground
we show no fear
but there is much to be afraid for
if fear serves a purpose
then anger has its role
but the mode is not violence
but strength and resolve
to do more to create
more than to purchase

there is no difference
between us and the world we create
without our actions nothing moves and nothing changes
if we hide our histories
and deny what we changed
our lives will be mysteries
will be hidden
estranged
the future belongs
to what we have started