avatarJ.R. Sonder

Summary

The poem "Return to Sender" by J.R. Sonder reflects on personal growth and the rejection of past harmful behaviors, advocating for self-improvement and accountability over hypocrisy and repetition of hurtful actions.

Abstract

"Return to Sender" is a contemplative piece that delves into the narrator's introspection and desire to break away from a cycle of pain and wrongdoing. The author expresses a wish to not embody the characteristics of those who have inflicted suffering, denied basic rights, and scorned the fight for dignity. It touches on the theme of religious hypocrisy, where individuals rely on divine forgiveness without true accountability and continue to perpetuate harm despite outward shows of remorse. The poem concludes with a call to rise above these negative patterns and a thank you to the reader, with an invitation to explore more of the author's work and a referral link to join Medium.

Opinions

  • The author conveys a strong desire to not repeat the mistakes of those who have caused harm in the past, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and change.
  • There is a critique of individuals who use religion as a means to absolve themselves of responsibility for their actions, suggesting that this is not true accountability.
  • The poem suggests that true change involves more than just confession or superficial gestures; it requires a genuine commitment to transformation.
  • The author, J.R. Sonder, appears to value dignity and the fight against submission, indicating a belief in standing up for one's rights and self-respect.
  • By sharing their work and offering a referral link, the author implies that writing and reading can be a means of personal connection and shared growth.

Return to Sender

Keep your hatred

Photo by Pro Church Media on Unsplash

May I not be who hurt me before, left me unprotected and denied me my basic rights, laughed at my pleas for dignity, and scorned me for fighting rather than kneeling in submission.

May I not be who indulged in ignorance and depended on God’s forgiveness as accountability, bowed their heads as crocodile tears attempted to wash away their sins and the copious bloodshed.

May I not be who intentioned pain and assured the lesson would be worth the ache, attended confession and after their granted salvation tapped into their evil heart and started again.

© J.R. Sonder

Thank you for reading! If you’d like to explore more of my work, check it out below and if you’d like to sign up to Medium, feel free to use my referral link!

Lifeline
Poetry
Poetry On Medium
Moving On
Mental Health
Recommended from ReadMedium