If Silence is Golden

Recently, I stepped outside my comfort zone and entered a poetry slam, hosted by Bull City Burgers and emceed by Chris Vitiello, Durham’s Poet Laureate, (also known as the “Poetry Fox”). The prize was a free burgers for a year. The rules; include three words: Bull, City, and Golden.

I am still paying for burgers, but it was a fun challenge and I’m grateful for the experience. Here’s my poem:

If Silence is Golden
And
Actions speak louder than words,

What does that even mean? What’s a girl to do?

Should I speak up?
or remain quiet?
Should I take action?
Grab the bull by its horns?
Be polite?

I guess it depends.

Words can never hurt me, except sometimes they do.
Encouraging Words are a balm to the soul and rebuild a broken spirit.
Good Words said well have a more lasting impact than a hot meal or a random act of kindness.

A man in the city asks for a handout.
Should I silently pass or pass some bills silently?
Or kneel to wash feet? Wait. Wouldn’t that offend? 

I guess it depends

Teach a man to fish, they say. Don’t make eye contact, they caution.

Who are they anyway?

Safety first. Safety FIRST?!
Whose safety?

What is the opportunity cost of silence? Or of not taking action to help a fellow human?

How SHOULD a life be SPENT when others’ lives are on the line?

Can I find a way to make it compute?

Carpe Diem. For what? For myself?
Is that life to the full or just a load of bull?

Carpe Diem. For whom? For others! For strangers?
Am I brave enough? God, I hope so.

Are WE Brave Enough?
I guess it depends on us.