I am thinking of that chain link fence
around the schoolyard meant to keep out
intruders. I am thinking of the sound
of shell casings hitting the ground, dancing
up in slo-mo, golden offerings to Moloch.
I am thinking of adults who will not
protect children because ambition
matters more.
I am praying this grief we share
will become a prayer.
I'm praying this anger remain
a hard knot in my throat.
I am praying that the broken ones
who break others will be helped
before they kill.
That the ones who make the laws
to keep the broken wreaking havoc
will be stopped.
I am praying that the ones who cannot
find a reason to go on will find
the breath to pray.