Each of us matters.

We were not responsible, for decisions that were made_

In olden times, before most of us were born.

Such mistakes are more clearly seen, by the conscience of today

But then, a Nation’s actions, obeyed a different norm.

I will not make excuses, for injustice done,

By those who, for selfish reasons, ignored humanity

But let us not, with hindsight, react intemperately

For only ‘Understanding’ will give foresight to see.

But I am, in part, responsible, to find a better way,

Sadly those who suffered, will not by our protests gain,

For selfishness still creates the troubles of today,

We must learn, now, to avoid creating further pain.

Pulling down the statues, posing on bended knee,

Does nothing more, than separate, those who, without pretence 

Co-operate with willingness, to find a better way, 

Seeking conflict resolution, not selfish recompense.

All lives matter, black, white and mixtures in between

Beliefs, are too, a stumbling block, where arguments abound

But if we start with friendship, without the prejudice,

Acceptance of variety, is more likely to be found.

George Potter