Joyful Ruins

Make me a bridge

one who can connect to the humanness

in anyone

One who sees

the vulnerability

even in those

who claim power

One who hopes and cultivates

understanding and love

for those and these

that people hate and misunderstand

I’ve done this for nature

creating a bridge

for those afraid

of the creatures they

do not know

or understand

I’ve done the same

for cultures

aiding others

in letting go

of their own comfort

and perceptions

and embracing

the differences found

in other people

Help me now

become a bridge

for those on opposite sides

for a country divided

Help me walk as one

who chooses

to listen and speak up

who looks beyond

the politics

the fear

the stubborness

and sees the heart

Give me words to speak

that will begin

the building of the bridge

between

the divided