The Gift (an explanation)

I can't explain the darkness or when it comes
over me blocking out the chance for change
unable to speak my emotions or cry out my frustration
at the situation or its inescapability

I can't explain that people all over are lost
in their own heads at the same time others are
getting blown up shot at stabbed or quietly starving
unable to see beyond their need or God or hope

I can't explain the proximity of wealth to poverty
wealth to freedom or natural wealth to putrid refuse
both revealing our fascination with ourselves
our future and the unbending power of our empty lives

I can't explain why we fight and make violence with ourselves
why we continue to be suprised at our decay why even
the smallest beauty gleams as if a gift from God
witnessing our own destruction but unable to bring it to an end.