t started out so noble. This cause was surely just.
You were violent and could do him harm.
And so, they came for him and they deemed it honorable.
We approved.

Also, you were negligent, irresponsible—having had no guidance.
In your youth, you made mistakes.
Still, they came for him and felt they had done right.
Easily, we watched.

One day you were poor and couldn't give him what they could—
the things they decided that he needed.
Again, they continued to come for him.
And, uneasily, we wondered.

Then, I became different
and did not measure up to their changing views.
They wanted to come for mine, in his "best interest."
There was no we, only me now, fighting these nice people.

Now you must wonder, as some day you might just awaken.
If something were to happen to you—
and no longer were you the same as they—
then, it will be your child they will come for.

Once former fellows, buoyed by self-righteousness,
will declare it's the right thing to do.
Whatever they see as good must prevail.
Alone, you will find yourself, and at their mercy.

Others will say nothing,
fearfully trying to keep on their good side,
knowing that any slip will mean that,
next, they will be coming for their children, too.


It is our hope to have Elian back in his father's arms speedily;

this, after all, is in accord with THE GOLDEN RULE.
 

Jules Dervaes
December 15, 1999