It's not wise to put words
In other people's mouths
Or to assume the ideas in their hearts.
Why not simply give them room
And hear them out?
A caged bird will never sing
Her true song,
Just a blue song,
Wishing to be free.
An animal trapped in a corner
Will lie, and die, and chew its own paw off,
Before it pounces, or attacks,
To get away.

But listen,
There were other words
To this anthem.
I've forgotten them,
Lost in the liberating joy
Of love
And intoxicating freedom.

-jenn