I will hold you no matter
how the world works to
separate us: Here, safe,
in my arms and heart.  

What good is compassion,
the softest dressed strength,
when the states are parted
by winds of alien hatred?  

How do we move a world
when it isn’t whole?
Set your ear to my heart,
listen as it whispers hope.  

Not one of us is alone,
helpless against fear
and darkest storms,
if some one dares care.    

(after the painting by Julie Rotblatt-Amrany)