I can speak for no one but myself.
Ask me what I think about this current
“situation” these
“troubling times”

I can speak for no one but me.
Today, as I was sweeping up glass
from a riot I barely understand…but I am trying.

Anyway

as I was helping clean up
and thinking, why, why are we cleaning this up
shouldn’t we let the anger sit here for awhile
doesn’t cleaning it
“righting” the impact
of rioting
really disappear the anger?

As I was placing garbage in my bag
a black man thanked me for my efforts.
And all I could do was wonder why
on God’s green earth
would you thank me?
I have only picked up garbage
this one time.

I have not spoken for you ever before
I have not educated myself
I have claimed to love others and stayed in my comfort.
You do not owe me any thanks
but I owe you my sincerest apology,
at the very least.
This little time of cleaning is nothing
compared to the mess my people have made.

I am sorry for my silence.
How, how can I speak for you?
And why would you want me to?

I think it is better that I stand silently with you
if that is helpful
and finally listen.