“Difference” (poem)

Isn’t it beautiful how different we all are?

How the tapestry, so wide, bears all stripes no matter how

abrasive they become

when bunched together?

Isn’t it beautiful how different we are?

How the harmless smile of one

is seen as a threat by another

and bad fights begun

over nothing at all?

Isn’t it beautiful how separate we are,

how we stay in our caves (with the ones

who are different in acceptable ways),

each to their own, giving wise speeches

safe from critical ears?

Isn’t it wondrous how some want diversity,

and some want conformity,

and some want both?

Isn’t it beautiful how different we are?

How the black sees the white,

and thinks it’s not right?

How beloved beliefs of an earnest soul

can be the most hated

ones of another,

fuel to a fire of blood and violence?

Isn’t it beautiful how

I see pink, but you see blue?

How you see lies while I see truth?

Ain’t it lovely how

you think I’m a fool

and I think that of you?

Isn’t it beautiful the way we say it’s so beautiful

and pleasant and nice with all of us here–

different as we can withstand–

us, who think it is beautiful

while those who spoke ill

are stuffed in a box?

Isn’t it inspiring how some succeed, while others fail?

Isn’t it beautiful how different we all are–

how some of us live

and some of us die?

How some are right

and some are wrong?

How some are good,

and some evil?