If I accept you’re not a racist
will you believe I’m not just moaning?
And if I don’t call you stupid
will you stop telling me to shut up?
And if we listen to one another
instead of prodding sternums,
might we also look together
at an uncertain future?
Can we accept our fears and dreams
aren’t so very far apart
and unclench our fists into palms?
I’ll hold yours if you’ll hold mine.
If I say sorry for my condescension,
will you listen to the people
who suggest misinformation
which has blighted all our lives
was put there by billionaires
who steal more from our land
than any battered refugee?
If I look into your eyes
over the top
of a cup half full of tea,
will you do the same for me?
Harry Gallagher
