If I could walk, I’d march with
The black and civil rights folk.
If I could walk, I’d carry a baby
On my shoulders to let him see
The evil behind him, in front of
Him, across the street he plays in.
If I could walk, I’d wrap love in
A blanket and give it to an old lady.
I’d sell my car and make a
Bandage out of its metal.
I’d be in a parade right next to the
Pastor from down home.
If I could walk, my tears would
Dry up, and my gut, as tight
As steel, would scream, fighting
Against the hate in the world,
The empty hearts emptier by the
Day, the hopeful souls dried up.
I cannot walk, but I can sing, and
I will sing songs of praise and
Melodies of strength and support
For those who hurt and whose
Eyes and ears are numb with
Grief and pain and chaos.
I cannot walk, but I can protest
Against betrayal and lies and
Corruption and bloodshed,
And protest I will.
© Lewis Bosworth, 8-2017