Dear Family

Dear family,

The cycle of self-pity

must end here.

We contaminate our young with

history,

and blame.

With guiltless guilt.

Why cry tears

after the fact?

When every crime remains

intact?

Their actions

only mirror what we've taught

and imply what we've thought.

Can the cycle be erased,

cut short,

ended, and begun again?

Can a new seed be planted in their minds?

Can our disappointments

keep the poisonous thoughts

from entering their minds?

Can't we find that shred of light,

and let it pass

through the sieve,

let it seep into their souls?

Let them grow old with us.

Let them grow high with pride.

Let them expect

what we never expected.

This cycle must end here.

Throw away our past,

and the past of our parents,

and our parents' parents.

Let's paint something new

for them to look at,

for them to live through.

We can't lead them to the ocean

of self-pity,

There have been too many swimmers

there.

Let them feel the air,

and see the sky.

Let them know that clouds are for

seeing clowns,

and that rain makes

puddles

to jump in.

Let them know that

even in darkness,

stars light up the sky.

If we can give them these gifts,

then there will be hope.

The cycle can end.

It is in our hands.

Sincerely,

A concerned member of your family.