I Hope So

Hope is not a thing on gossamer wings It does not float or twirl like a dust mote

Hope does not show up quietly with apology on its lips

Hope stomps in, muddied and bloodied, with light bursting through cracked skin

Hope sits silent, an arm flung wide, longing for rest it must resist

Hope is not for the faint of heart It is not a throwaway phrase or performance part

How dare you say "I hope so." with your painted smile and weak soul?

How dare you? Where were you when ... and when ... and when ...

"I hope so." is a promise

A pledge

A plea

"I hope so." screams for those strong enough to be

Hope marches on its own, to the beat of the warrior's drum, carrying generations and those to come

Hope says "Hell no, I won't go." when it would be so easy to leave

Will we ever be the change?

I hope so.

I hope so.