A Borrowed America

the democracy of our government
was shaped by the American Indian,
but yet live on reservations
and are only known as tribes -
a part of my heritage; though,
i'm also Caucasian, what makes it a race?

the backbone of the drum,
is a musicians beat that originates
out of Africa, but yet,
this ethnic bond supports
the entire country
with its minority roots -
though i'm not of this race.

it is said that roger bacon invented
the camera just before the year of 1300.
like any picture developed -
this snapshot of this country,
i expose in the darkroom.

banking originated in ancient Mesopotamia,
but yet money was developed
in many parts of the world.
but America developed paper currency
due to a shortage of coins;
it introduced inflation and debt -
isn't it wonderful?

what does this country
possess in originality,
except for what i read in the newspaper,
of which has been quoted as a pack
of lies right from the top -
especially the headlines of Iraq.

if it makes you feel any better,
i'll borrow from Abe Lincoln -
in that knowledge obtained
is the greatest asset
i can ever achieve
in this country - don't you agree?