We gather around the burial sites
of heres and theres and wheres
of truth, compassion, and cooperation
among factions of neighbors and nations
We gather awaiting the resurrection
of what we feared was forever dead
the better selves, the braver selves
the native and the seeking selves
We gather as the dirt is removed
the nation’s body cleaned
of insult, hatred, suspiciousness
of division and mockery
We gather together, repentant
having seen the shadows of who we are
into the light of hope again
skies filled with new lit stars
I hold his dream still ringing true
on this inauguration eve
that today our nation is exalted
where all can live freely and breathe.