I'm a writer and a poet. I saw Mr. Obama speak in 2004 and have followed him intermittently through his time in Washington. I've read his books. After watching his announcement speech, I wrote the first poem, an acrostic based on his name. The second poem was a response to a friend who read the first and said, "Not this time, the money, time and probably some other things are against him." It is based on the word "upstart." These are not even the sort of poems I typically publish, but these are what came.
I have no idea at this time if I will become a true supporter of this seeminingly unique man, but these are my opening thoughts.
LWC
On the Steps in Springfield
Begin humbly, seeking a sign to show the way.
Actions will always speak louder than the best
Rhetoric, but never forget the power of words.
Acknowledge that all of human achievement
Combines heart, mind, need and opportunity.
Keep the faith, baby. You are not the first
Or the last to stand before hopeful citizens,
Begging for belief and support, promising
An “awakened” populace that we together,
Multitudes for change, can make a difference.
And be very careful – the world is full of crazies.
Wiltshire © 2007
Not This Time
Under no circumstances can you win –
people with money, power, influence
say they need to see the stain of sin,
the residue of failure, the gray skin
associated with paying political dues.
Roll around with the devil, lie, cheat,
take some time for evil, then try again.
