In Memory of John Lewis

Hi friends, the tributes to the late John Lewis offer a chance to re-examine our moral values and civic obligations. “Interbeing” is the title poem of my upcoming collection this fall. It gives some thought to overcoming our sad tribal divisions at home and abroad. Cat Max, mentioned in the poem, is my old Siamese friend.

Interbeing

“We need people who can bring mediation and reconciliation to nations in conflict.” (from “Being Peace,” Thich Nhat Hanh).

The tribe saves and deceives.
Like all animal kin we perish
without breast and hearth,
without touch, teaching, and love.

The tribe separates us
by nation, class, skin, wealth,
and myriad fearful barriers like patriotism
driven by violent nationalism.

We find comfort parading with tanks
and missiles before our dear leader
as anti-militarism becomes cowardice:
“thank you for your service, glad it’s you, not me.”

60,000 rushed to early graves,
taking many more Vietnamese with them
for an insane war, and a wall of names
on the Mall to placate the grieving.

Can we resolve conflicts with the monk’s
diplomacy of understanding and compassion?
Can we make peace with our warrior spirit
surging from reptilian brains

to honor kinship with enemies
long enough to save a beautiful planet?
Cat Max purrs yes with prophets and mystics around the world.