On a perfect fall day like today,

horror over an unprovoked attack

on a politician’s spouse

fueled by irresponsible political

rhetoric fills me with a palpable fear

over what the future holds

for my children and grandchildren.

As I hear the hum of lawnmowers

in the distance, the response to 

the violent rhetoric by some leaves me

with my mouth wide open. A governor,

my governor, makes a stupid, 

provoking statement and reckless

television hosts continue to repeat

lies so often that they become

“truths” to their hungry listeners.

The visceral fear and anger

thrums through my body, 

gets louder and louder as 

a former president whips 

up his followers and encourages 

more violence if he does not 

get his way. I ask you, if a child calls

people ugly names, makes up 

and spreads lies and excuses,

and bullies others to do the same 

what would you do? What would you do?