Amongst the crowds

I've been tossing this one around in my head since Tuesday. I hope I can be more like Boud and not be silent in future.

Amongst the crowds

I am but a character in a story, a story as ancient as days.

I am there amongst the crowds, my cheers the loudest of all.

Hosanna!

I am there, again, amongst the crowds, but now in fear my voice is silent.

Release! Crucify!

Once more amongst the crowds, this time watching as he in his frailty and humanness stumbles.

I go to turn away, but before I do his eyes seek me out.

I expect anger, hatred even, for my betrayal;

instead, through the blood and sweat, through the dirt and filth, in his eyes

I see love. He mouths a word, his body too wrecked to speak it aloud.

I repeat the word, mistrusting my understanding.

Justice.

He nods as he is crushed beneath his burden, 

and driven forward on his bloodied and bleeding knees.

No more silence.

I am here amongst the crowds, crying,

no more genocide.

I am here among the crowds finding my voice,

no more war.

I am here amongst the crowds and speaking 

against cruelty, poverty, injustice.

I am here among the crowds

because I must never be silent again.