AMAZING GRACELESSNESS

Summary

The website content reflects on the current state of societal discourse and respect, drawing inspiration from historical references and personal reflections, and calls for a return to grace and unity through the guidance of a Lincoln-esque leader.

Abstract

The content presents a poignant series of poems and reflections that critique the erosion of respect and civility in contemporary society. It contrasts the ideal of "better angels" from Abraham Lincoln's inaugural address with the present-day reality of divisive politics and societal unrest. The author laments the loss of sacred space and the spread of disrespect, suggesting that love and "amazing Grace" could serve as a vaccine to the current social ills. The piece also includes a personal thank you to those who inspired the work and a call to action for gratitude and unity, especially resonant on Independence Day.

Opinions

The author perceives a decline in respect and the presence of "wannabe good guys" who contribute to societal division.
There is a clear criticism of those who manipulate truth and incite resentment, described as "pawns" and "disciples of a liar."
The text implies that both sides of the political spectrum are responsible for twisting truth and banning books, but one side is singled out for defiling sacred space.
The author expresses a hope for a leader reminiscent of Abraham Lincoln to guide the nation back to a path of unity and respect.
Gratitude is emphasized as a crucial element to counteract the darkness in the

A tanka/monoku series

…will yet swell the chorus of the Union, when again touched, as surely, they will be, by the better angels of our nature. Abraham Lincoln

Wannabe good guys Pawns — spawns of relentless spin Decrying witch hunts Their better angels tarnished Disciples of a liar

Yes, both sides twist Truth — both sides ban books — only one defiled sacred space

Wannabe good guys Creations of foxy Hydes Jekyls and jackals Fed resentment, rage encaged Rabid disrespect set free

Both sides mourn and fear freedom’s loss — two sides of an arch never meeting

Wannabe good guys Souls infused with a virus Love the sole vaccine May amazing Grace aid them Our lost nation — found anew

Through dangers, toils, and snares we’ve come — where is a Lincoln to lead us home?

©Jenine Bsharah Baines 2023

Thank you, Carolyn Hastings, for the prompt — Respect Respect. And with “all due respect” and reverence, thank you team at Paper Poetry for the home for this poem. Suntonu Bhadra, Indubala Kachhawa, and Carolyn.

umair haque, your words have long inspired my activism. Have you ever considered penning a poem? Please tag me if you write one! Franco Amati and Joe Luca — how about you???

Thank you, readers.

I read that “thank you’s” may kill boosting because they look kiss ass. Oh, well. In this dark world, it’s more important than ever to put the Light of gratitude out there.

please click here if inclined to ponder, play, dream and sing with me.

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Happy Independence Day to those of you in the U.S.

RESPECT RESPECT — A PROMPT

AMAZING GRACELESSNESS

Where in the hell are our better angels?

A tanka/monoku series