On The Line

Write about the power people wield.
I don't see any; I don't
know if they have any.

Flesh and bone can't shield.
They won't stop bullets; they won't
go far if they catch any

- but stand up anyway.
Some day soldiers will run out of bullets,
some day their arms will be too tired
to lift the axe for the killing blow.

Stand up until you're knocked down
and pray someone will take your place
for freedom, a thing you can't give

a hungry child; a pregnant woman
can't feed her baby choice
unless the people raise a voice
and stand up to take your place.