...part two to "Is It Really Peace We Want?" posted a few days back.

            We see what lies within us
projected on reality’s field,
            but choose oft to push truth back,
            to fight and defend with upheld shield.

            Afraid of what we must change,
we reject world as foreign, “other,”
            forfeit opportunity
            to stand witness, embrace our brother.

            We dig in our heels and hurl
condemnation, raise weapons and aim.
            We say we are nothing like
            “them,” playing judge, casting blame.

            When might we learn to stop, turn,
observe chaos and conflict inside?
            Is it not within our hearts
            where darkest seeds of violence hide?