In the cool of the evening,

a distant “coo” breaks the silence,

spreading a presence of peace

throughout the valley.  Yet, over

yonder hills war rages, corruption

crushes the human spirit,

and tyranny triumphs like

an Olympic athlete.  Doves fly

overhead, and are shot down.

People cheer, but the “coo”

crumbles before our eyes.

We lay a dollar in the offering

plate, and sing, “O, How I Love

Jesus” to ease our consciences.

We listen.  Silence.  Guns fire in

the distance.