Our nation has simmered

So long untouched

Setting ourselves

apart are we.

Who, or what, will ignite

the flame beneath the melting pot?

Who, or what, will stir

The separate pieces into one?

It is beyond screaming tears

to watch the pieces float by

each other, assuming and sorting

by differences.

Why does it not seem possible

to pause, consider who we really are,

And share ourselves,

our ideas, our cultures,

And collect them in that melting pot

that blends infinite, disparate pieces

into one united?

Why must walls be put up

to preserve within

And human garrisons be put up in the streets

to block without?

Why is it that we’ve set

those lines that exclude

In the hope of self-preservation?

But nothing survives without giving.

Giving ourselves,

Inviting others to share.

We do not lose ourselves by doing this;

We only strengthen.