Charleston

Whatever the headlines are or aren’t
Some days I feel like engaging with people
In acknowledging and addressing ‪#‎WhiteSupremacy‬
As it appears in overt and covert ways
In our country/world

I stay curious
I try to point out patterns
And simplify systemic problems
Think of illustrative analogies
Broaden perspectives

I dare to imagine
The conversation and legislation
That might change things
Something feels possible

On other days
Like today
I just sit frozen and silent
In the face of ‪#‎Charleston‬
All that led to it
All that it will and won’t lead to

The morning after the massacre
The confederate flag still flies
On the grounds of the statehouse

White people and/or gun-lovers
Ready their defense/attack
Desperation and denial

I know the heaving sobs
Are in there somewhere
I just can’t feel much right now

This is the exhaust
Over and over
This is the exhaust