Notes From Freedom's Heart

i spend a lot of my time writing about freedom, dignity, and equality.... using a lot of different forms, just trying to be heard.... but i've come to the understanding that whether i write it, sing i, play it on guitar, paint it, dance it, or write it on signs and march it..... doesnt matter! what matters is whether i live it! when i can look into another human being's eyes and not see color, gender, religious or political idealogies, or sexual preference... when i know that their mistakes and failures are my own... that there is no difference between us... that we have the same needs and desires... and that we need each other..... when i'm willing to listen, to offer a hand up, willing to work and walk beside of (not in front of!) .... when my thoughts, words, and actions reflect a deep reverence and respect for all that lives.... when my choices validate humanity..... when i can see without judging... when i'm willing to speak the truth at all costs.... to give all that i have, and all that i am, regardless of the risk.... when my own life matters less to me than the lives of those i come in contact with.... when i'm willing to stand up for what's right, for compassion, and for hope... even if it costs me my own life.... then, and only then, i will have become the poem i've tried all of my life to write... then and only then, i will have become fully human.... and will have answered the call that we all have.... will i continue to write? yes! but day by day, moment by moment.... i'll keep working! will you join me?