On the Contrary...

I've seen a deaf man pay a blind
to pluck vibrations only visible
within his own mind.
​
I've seen broken outlaws distract
sobbing widows
from the fear of what lies behind.

I've seen prostitutes offer tithes,
despite eternal condemnations
from their own kin and kind.

I've laughed until crying
with soldiers, only hours before dying,
and a screaming man in a hospital tried
to match his final dreams with mine.

I remember when our wisest cried out,
and only time replied!

I've heard men praise my nation,
I've heard men curse it.
Some have lived and died for such things;
others say it will never be worth it.

Yes, I've seen the innocent bludgeoned
by protectors of the peace.
I've seen priests and politicians
worshiping the beast.
I've seen justice at its least, son.

A crown on the dirty,
and shackles on the cleanest.
I've seen healers
hanging bloody from crosses
and I've seen the vultures at their feast.

Myself, I keep secrets.
I've had favors done me
which would cost a man his life.
And I've seen miracles I cannot mention
of fear for even mine.

And yes, I've seen the meaningless redeemed.
I've lived in the woods and on the street.
I've begged and I've pleaded for just
a chance to be
and to see the things I see because...

I've seen particles behaving as waves!
I've seen masters bowing before slaves!
I've seen the future of the ancient ways!
Harmony among all divergent rays!

And I'll see many more contrary things
within the coming days.

​-Jeremy the Heretic