Our Shared Circumstance

Poem by Daniel J. Neumann

Life is some wicked,

Is somewhat ambivalent,

Is some fantastic—

Whatever we choose to see

In our evaluation.

Have you ever burped?

Have you ever wondered why?

Is that important?

What does a kiss mean?

It’s actually repulsive

Of flesh electrons.

We aren’t just machines.

And we aren’t just emotions.

We are so much more.

Sight should lead to care.

Compassion should lead to love.

Love is salvation.

Focus inwards and

Understand how your brain works.

Desire runs us.

What if we redeemed

Want—away from selfishness—

To procure world peace?

We can change the narrative.

This isn’t the only way.