is everywhere and easy
to give into. Giving up feels
simple, like sliding under
an unstoppable wave
letting that last breathe go.

Hope is harder. You must
believe in the beauty
of sunrise and the smell
of fresh baked bread and
strawberries at the farmers 

market that taste like redemption.
That the tromp of feet in the streets
the chanting voices, the signs made
with crayons and colored markers
mean this is not over. We will not

accept less than what we deserve.