Tears for Aleppo

 

War is a shame

We so easily claim

 

But it is our shame that we must own

Is our human-less soul hard as stone?

 

We watch a disaster unfold from afar

Following our knowing, self-righteous shining star

 

We complain of crimes, of sins unimagined

But we knew, empty threats, empty promises damaged

 

Abandoned our brothers, sisters, children too

To another monster of power in the East, and you know who

 

We claim to be weary, even claim to have won

We saved ourselves, and precious red-line drawn

 

But now what of the millions on the road?

What of horrors that are still to be told?

 

What of the children that cry though the night?

What would our shame and tears make right?

 

Can we look away, distracted by our stars?

Can we enjoy our world and ignore the scars?

 

Look straight at the world as it really is

Look at the children as they die for soul-less ideals

 

And if you can easily claim

War is just an ugly shame?

 

Then too find a moment to shed a tear

For all those still living in absolute fear!