With Great Compassion, for those who hurt others

This poem was written by Susan Singer in anticipation of One Billion Rising RVA.  It is addressed to those who are so hurt they take it out on others. 

With great compassion...

At One Billion Rising

A swell of noise rushes to greet the women as they arrive,

Excited, nervous, full of anticipation,

Ready to rise, to say No!, to say Yes!

Violence vs Victory and Empowerment.

One Billion Women – it’s an impossibly big number -

Will we truly gather One Billion Women Valentine’s Day

                to take a stand?

                to say to everyone else around them –

The violence can not go on.

You may not rape my sister.

You may no longer beat my mother.

The words you’re using are harsh and cruel and

must be softened.  I know you hurt too.

You – put down your gun.  You don’t mean to shoot.

You, too, just want to be loved.

I’m sorry you were forced to go to war.

I’m sorry you hurt.

Come into my arms.

My heart, this heart of womankind,

It can contain your hurt and sorrow and, yes, even your fears.

I love you.

I ache for you.

But I will no longer take your expressions of

                hurt and anger and pain.

They must stop.

You must allow yourself to break open

                as you have broken us open

Allow yourself to weep the tears of the ages

                War and strife

                jealousy, rage

                competition

                the demand that you be in charge,

                that you dominate and know what’s right –

Let it all go.  It is no longer necessary.

We are here to soothe you.  To rock you.

To hear your pain and cradle your aching head.

The anger can cry itself to sleep.  You’re safe.

One Billion People are here to say no to your hurting yourself - or us - any longer.

The pain will end,

NOW.

Come into the garden and be made whole.

~ Susan Singer

    Feb 8, 2013