True Terror

True Terror is not the bump in the night
Howl of wind in naked trees
Or fear of monsters beneath our bed

But rather is the wickedness
Man visits upon Man
War
Violence
Oppression
Subjugation
Slavery
Exploitation
Racism
Hate

We hold the power
To free ourselves from terror
Rid ourselves of iniquity
In recognizing our common humanity
Extending the hand of friendship

For terror is not merely of the mind
But is evil amongst us
And our salvation
Comes in acts
Of love

Mike Turner is a retired member of the U.S. Government’s Senior Executive Service. He served a 27-year career as a law enforcement professional in the Departments of Defense, Treasury, Homeland Security and Commerce. In retirement, Turner has had a second career as an award-winning songwriter and poet. His poems have appeared in numerous journals and anthologies, including Dissident Voice. He can be contacted at www.MikeTurnerSongwriter.com. Read other articles by Mike.