Preserving Dignity

No one should have to beg or crawl before humanity.
No one should have to scheme to procure philanthropy.

No one should be outcast for simply being different.
No one should be found guilty ere proven he's not innocent.

No one should be employed based solely on color of skin.
No one in high positions should think themselves sovereign.

No one should be denied the human right to equality.
No one should be the victim of cruel brutality.

No one should have to demean himself just to make a living.
No one should have a heart that is cold and unforgiving.

No one should be subjected to a life of slavery.
No one should have to suffer the effects of bigotry.

No one should abuse another; in word, in strength or deed.
No one should have the less because of other's greed.

No one should be the target of hate by any race.
No one should have to die ashamed and in disgrace.

No one should feel a thrill from the suffering of others.
No one should think himself to be better than his brothers.

No one should judge another or degrade their fellow man.
No one should plot and scheme to carry out an evil plan.

No one should act in anger or utter wicked hurtful things.
No one should be "no one" for we all are human beings.

To us God gave the gift of love to bestow upon each other.
Let's preserve and honor the dignity of all our sisters and brothers.

Rev. Saundra L. Washington, D.D., is an ordained clergywoman, veteran social worker, and Founder of AMEN Ministries. She is also the author of two coffee table books: Room Beneath the Snow: Poems that Preach and Negative Disturbances: Homilies that Teach which can be reviewed on her site. Her new book, Out of Deep Waters: My Grief Management Workbook, is expected to be available soon.

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Blessings to all!