As I write this out today
I can only hope that those following
Will take up the banner and fight
Instead of laying down arms and wallowing
In self-pity and shame. 

They need to fight the fight and win
rights for those who cannot defend themselves
And place victory and valor in hands that are thin,
Those whose legs are too weak to stand;
Carry the shield of honor wherever they go
And proudly wave the American flag and hand
To each other the baton for all the world to see.

We are one, united, standing for jurisprudence,
Democracy and independence for all
Who live within the boundaries of the abundance
Given to us by our forefathers. 

Give pause today for all we have,
What we have worked for, sullied against enemies,
Broken our backs, sweated in the sun and salved
Our conscience at night when we pray. 

Freedom shall last, it shall rise
As we all join together in peace
And raise our heads with tear-filled eyes
To proclaim we stand tall and will always rise higher.

 (c) 2006 George E Thompson

Inspired by the poem, “And Still I Rise,” by Dr. Maya Angelou