That Is A Mystery Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

Why is there such a high crime rate,
In these neighborhoods.
And the people hating themselves,
The way they do?

'That is a mystery.
One would think that the ways of the demon,
Taught in the churches on such a consistent basis...
Would have eliminated all of the evilness by now.
Huh?
Or that poverty, homelessness and hunger...
Would not exist.

But see...
I would not have noticed that at all,
If you had not brought that to my attention.
I had been ostracized many years ago.
Yep.
For being a nonconformist.
Had you not invited me to visit your relatives,
I wouldn't be here at all.
You must don't go to church?

Thank God I recognize on which side of the fence,
My blessings flow.
Comeon.
Let's get out of here.
We're already getting looks of suspicion.'