RANDOM JACK POETRY HOUR: UKRAINE
re: The Russian People
We are told the people love you
(they do not know and never did)
We are told that they believe you
(they don’t but they won’t tell)
We are told they think as you do
(we are not that cynical)
We are told they have your back
(they are ready to abandon you)
The truth about the Russian people
Is more complex than we are told
When a dictator has the power
To imprison you for words
To lock you up for speaking them
To hold you without trial
To hold your family in contempt
To punish every gesture of dissent
They will never speak the truth
Not to you or anyone
The people who have taken to the streets
Who have gathered in city squares
Who have spoken their minds
In public or private settings
Are courageous beyond words
They are the ones that will rise
They are the ones who will stand
When Putin finally falls
