you see, it’s this way:
all those so strange people
and all their equally strange beliefs
and odd traditions and clothes
and gods and sexual preferences
all their countries and cultures
and bizarrely performed rituals
and incomprehensible sayings
and very imperfect ideas
all of which frighten you
and leave you befuddled
and most agitated to imagine
that perhaps they might, oh,
just might move in next door
and tempt your children away
from the perfect truth
you most zealously embrace—
all those dangerous people
are just like each blade of grass
each gentle sunning dandelion
wishing for nothing more sinister
than that you do not step on them,
that you leave them in peace
George Ellington 
You describe the fear of difference very well, thought provoking.
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Thank you, Cassa. I appreciate that.
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Bravo George, great message and poem!
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Thank you so much, Jay. I appreciate that. I think some people hear that message better than others. Considering your own family background, I assume you know what it is like to be one of the “others”.
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Yes I do, in many different ways and experiences. But I suppose as you say in effect ‘Stay in your own lane” ;))
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Not at all easy to do, is it? Especially when someone else keeps carving out the lane for you to follow. I love that about your poetry and art–always feels like you are creating your own lane.
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thanks so much, as do I of yours, my friend! And yes carving my own lane has been a lifelong journey toward peace. I may not like someone else’s “grass” but I don’t set it on fire or stomp on it. anyhow, the challenge to forge ahead on my own path is too intoxicating! :))
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It’s a good thing that you continue to post here/ I’ve had you on my blogroll for years. Keep on, g
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So kind of you to say, Namelessneed. I do remember you as well. I went on a bit of a poetic walkabout for a time there. Coming and going. But it is certainly good to return and see some of the fantastic writing that is here now, new names, and some real talent. Cheers.
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I love this…. I hesitate to comment sometimes, on your wonderful poetry… I feel I’m not that good at saying what I mean… or that my comments might marr a work’s beauty… but hear hear, to this message… and beautifully said, yes. 💗
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Dear Lia, you could not possibly mar anything I write. I cannot tell you how much I welcome your comments.
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😃 Thank you, G 🙏🌻
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