Cowardice

What is my answer?
When all within me gives way
As the surging sea quietly swept away
A sleeping baby, a child at play, a mother in distress

Lifeless limbs and hollowed out homes
Cutting through cushioned kneelers and empty pews
Alms in rush parading pride at best if not pity
As a word is spurned and a thought is scoffed

But arms in waiting mourn to be hugged
Too spent to tear, too tired to weep
Heartless, headless collaboration seize the day
Emotions bespoke void of truth

A world of terror grips me by the collar

Shakes out the hope and calls it celebration

Go about lightless, be a candle they say

Never ignite 

I listen as the serenade lingers on

Accomodating the growing unrest within me

To take to the streets the light the night dispels

For fear that I might be questioned.