H.O.R.S.E.

Who decided to spell H.O.R.S.E.

that this was the way to see

who was the best shot in the neighborhood?

Today, I watched young kids play H.O.R.S.E.

and doubt they ever rode a horse at summer camp

or enjoyed Roy Rogers on TV

Shoot to disarm and never to kill

dreamed of crying High Oh Silver,

ride Trigger, Flicka or Fury off into the sunset

They want fast cars and rocket ships,

automatic rifles and blasters to tally

mass casualties of those who aren’t on their side

Race back home before storm troopers

arrive to clean up the mess

and mommas bury their babies in the dust

5-1-22