I was told
To observe
Not to intervene
To listen
Not to be vocal
To tolerate
Not to offend

I was told
What is holy?
What is unholy?
To seek light in the dark
And to stay rooted

I was told
To be kind next to
My space
My home
My nation
And practice act of forgiveness

I was told
When mind thinks wrong
Beware of self

I was told
All the above
And many more

Something wrong!
Never did they tell
How long?
I have to stay numb
Or hold the belief
That shadow is me

Tell me