we did not elect you
as our representative
to name your enemies
as our enemies––
you represent us
only to ensure
our respect for all––
thou shalt not
kill or harm
in our name––
politics may be
a rude art
of self-interest––
but
you are elected
by We The People
to be honest & forthright
with all of us––
do not let power
corrupt you.
let no one
call you thief.
your job is to earn
the profits of good faith
in the name
of our common wealth.
if someone disagrees––
if anyone disagrees––
then listen––
in patience &
the reservation of judgment––
we learn.
take care not
to project your personal interests,
ambition,
or religious imperatives
into public affairs––
if you’re not sure
what’s needed––
then ask.
our founders
were wise
fathers
of orderly democracy.
the open mind of justice
is fair &
impartial.
breathe in
the limitless order
of the celestial dark––
see the hope
& hear the human crying
of the solar day––
keep nurturing
the borders
of your mind & heart.
if a time of trial
comes to you
it comes to all
of us
& together
we will prevail––
to do what is right
as we are given
to see the right––
to act in a way
that blesses every
stranger
& serves the posterity
of all that lives.