I’ll be honest with you guys, I’m scared
I’m scared of a lot of things
I’m scared of ghosts, well, not ghosts persay, more like evil spirits or demons
I like to think there are some good ghosts hanging around
I’m scared of global warming, man that’s terrifying
The idea that our world is gonna die in what, 12 years is it?
Damn. All that stuff I talked about in my last poem? Wouldn’t even get the chance
Wouldn’t be able to raise a family or get a house or build a career, really live
Although I wouldn’t have to worry about student loans, that’s a plus
Or retirement and getting old, maybe it isn’t too bad.
I’m scared of shots, ya know, the ones you get at the doctor’s?
Although I’m proud to say I’m getting better with that one
It’s not as bad anymore
But, at the same time, I’m getting a new fear of shots
Ones that ring out in churches and schools and malls
Ones that kids are having to run from, people of color are having to run from, people are having to run from
Bullets that are taking away family and love, safety and education, comfort and trust
Yes, this is *that* kind of poem because you know what I’m pissed
I’m sick of the horror stories and the lack of political action
I’m tired of people not thinking it’s their problem, god, does your child have to die for you to understand the issue?
I’m scared for me and my female friends,
Who have to walk with fear
Be blamed for choices we never had
Be ridiculed for style that never gave permission
Be seen as only a woman, when I promise we are so much more
Girls, who’s ‘no’s somehow give people a right for them to be murdered, beaten and threatened
When women are gifted tasers and pepper spray but men are not taught of rape culture one would think that the worry is clear
Does your daughter, wife, friend have to be raped before you see the problem?
I’ll be honest with you guys, I’m scared
A lot of us are scared
Scared of our loved ones dying or being hurt
Scared that we’re out of time
12 years exactly out of time
Man, I wish all I have to be scared of were doctor’s shots and evil demons
But I don’t have the luxury to be scared by those little things anymore
In fact I don’t have the option to let anything paralyze me with fear
Cause what will that do?
We only have 12 years to fix a lot and while fear may be the best motivator it’s the best killer and I already have too many things trying to kill me
So
I’m forced to shove any doubt I have left with the demons,
And take a shot of strength
Cause I’ll admit it I’m scared, but why’s that gotta stop me?