You Don't Have To Poem by Bryan Cobaris

'You don't have to…'written by Bryan Cobaris
inspired by The Holy Spirit


You don't have to shake in fear just because my skin is dark.
We're not about to start a riot when we barbecue in the park.
You don't have to point your gun when you see I'm not a threat.
Please stop saying you've seen me before, when we've never met.

No need to dial 911, feeling that I shouldn't be wherever you are.
No need to lock your door or beep your alarm as I walk by your car.
You don't have to clutch your purse when I sit or stand next to you,
not even Sundays while we worship the same God: what would Jesus do?

You don't have to look down your nose, because I don't have a degree.
The wealth of this great nation, from its declaration, came from slavery.
You don't have to give me special treatment, but just treat me as an equal.
As America sadly replays its darkest days, who will you be in this sequel?