Wasn't It Sold a Long Time Ago

Why are people so alarmed?
And what is it are they wishing to take back?
And from whom?

Integrity?
When did they lose it,
And who took that away?

Dignity and pride?
The last time I witnessed that...
It was on life support.
And I don't think they were able,
To bring any of it back.

Let's see...mmm,
Oh yeah,
Humanity?
Remember when homelessness, poverty and hunger
Were all associated with the inner city folks?
Now everybody wants to get into the act.
But...
Humanity?
Still has taken two or three steps back!

Why are people so alarmed?
And what is it are they wishing to take back?
And from whom?

Jobs and...well, jobs!
Remember the terms downsized and outsourced?
Can you say...
Betrayal and deceit?
And add corporate greed to that.

High prices?
Low or no wages!
The economy is on the brink.
Banks are closing.
And...
No one dares to mention truth.
Or the pollution done to the environment.

Why are people so alarmed?
And what is it are they wishing to take back?
And from whom?

Well...
Not too many are far away from ignorance.
So that can't be what they are wishing to take back.
And if it is the country they refer to?
Wasn't it sold a long time ago...
When racism was used as a distraction?

This country has been ripped to shreds!
With few wishing to prioritize,
A patching of this quilt done.

poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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