Ironically Independence Day

For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others. – Nelson Mandela

Imagine you only believe
what you already think
you know.
WE HOLD THESE TRUTHS 
TO BE SELF-EVIDENT.
Imagine you only hear
from others
what you 
have already
been telling yourself.
Imagine a country
where you are forced 
to stand
to pretend you're free.
Imagine a country
where government 
makes you 
have a baby
but won't let you 
care for it.

Let's celebrate that.
Maybe put the baby 
in private cages.
In the dark.
Just the brown ones.
For now.
Imagine a country
where science is denied.
Where the water lapping 
at your toes,
nothing to be worried about.
But don't drink it.
Imagine a country
where gun manufacturers 
control fortified schools
and prayer 
is not only allowed
but necessary.

Let’s celebrate that.

Imagine a country
where you can't marry 
the person you love
because the government 
stood up
when the padre asked,
Is there anyone here
who will speak 
against this union?
Imagine a country
where you can't 
ever vote again
cause you smoked a weed
in the wrong state
Unless you're white.
Imagine a country
where local Sheriffs 
have tanks and helicopters
and children go to bed 
starving.
If they have a bed.

Let's celebrate that.
Imagine a country
where three college dropouts 
have more money
than the bottom half 
of all the people.
Why it's called 
the bottom.

Freedom.
Something 
to celebrate.
Maybe blow 
some shit up.
Scare 
all the dogs.

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