Some view uprising

As riot

Violence and rule of the mob

And seek to counter it

Some view uprising

As insurrection

Undercutting the rule of law

And seek to combat it

Some see uprising

As rebellion

Overthrowing the ruling order

And seek to suppress it

Some see uprising

As anarchy

Disorganization, chaos

And seek to control it

But those involved

In riot, insurrection, rebellion, anarchy

Can hold a different view:

Rising up

Opposing laws unequally applied

Unseating traitorous rulers

Dissembling dysfunctional institutions

With the tools available to them

I do not condone violence

But I have great empathy

For those oppressed

Targets of discrimination

Victims of violence hate

And I acknowledge why they might rise up

Against the injustice they are subjected to

Some see uprising

As riot, insurrection

Rebellion, anarchy

And some see it as Revolution

The unmaking of the unjust

The creation of a better life

Do we not all want these things?

And, recognizing our common desire

As an incoming tide lifts all boats

Can we not find a way

To pursue justice, equality, freedom

For all?

And rise up to achieve them

Together?

By Mike Turner

From: United States

Website: http://www.MikeTurnerSongwriter.com

Twitter: SchoonerSkipper

Facebook URL: https://www.facebook.com/MikeTurnerSongwriter