The storm

After Nehemiah 5:1-13

The storm passed through us

the storm of famine engulfed us taking

our fields

our vineyards

our children

we buy food

that will not last

we are slaves

to the storm

of wealth and greed,

the storm a smile

of arrogance

we sold our fields

and vineyards

we mortgaged our homes

and borrowed to pay taxes

our lament remains

unheard, a shout

inside a deep well

without an echo

our lament is turned aside

our lament is cast aside

as dross

our stomachs and hearts

are empty and hollow.

The rich are with us

always.

Photograph by Michael Spisak via Public Domain Pictures. Used with permission.