A Man

​I am a man, that’s what I am
Don’t put me down for no fault of mine
My kind led tribes for millennia
Endowed with strength, was he not to use it
Knowing now not to abuse it
We have evolved, understood some things
Brain the most important tool
We rose the ranks, we made the rules
Sharing power, more civilized
Understanding the benefit of compromise
Appreciate the rights of all who walk the earth
Can’t expect oppressed to act with mirth
A better society supports its citizens
From all walks of life, a chance to rise
Fair opportunity, not based on color, strength or size
In creating fairness, don’t punish and hate
Build everyone up, equal chance to change fate
The roles we have, we learned quite early
Changing them midstream makes us surly
Protect, provide, be strong not weak
Create safe space, better life for family seek
Now the roles are all in question
Chance to adapt, new rules digest them
A little time to change things ingrained
Societal expectation, upheaval causes strain
An open mind, foster mutual respect
Use care in flux, not to create neglect
For some who may have good things now
Can’t take away what’s naturally endowed
Build up all types, creeds, sexes, races
Proper education doesn’t favor pale faces
Nor should it put down those that have physical strength
Or intellect, talent, humor or creative length
Religious faith, freedom to worship preference
Fair conditions apply to all without reference
To inherited or culturally acquired traits
All humans deserve equal chance to be great
Or average if they choose to be
Still protected by society
A man has value, woman too
Non gendered the same, when we have no clue
Apply the rules across the board
Some will always try to wealth and power hoard
Take a broader view of what all deserve
Until that day, judgment I will reserve
Still prioritize fairness, real and true justice
Values do matter, important to trust us
I am a man, that’s what I am
Coming together for peace, I hope we can