Years spent

Guilt-ridden, powerless, 

Watching my country turn on itself.

Neighbor against neighbor against those who need help.

Bowing my head in shame,

Only to see my white skin,

My middle-class life,

My loving parents.

What right did I have to these advantages?

I hadn't earned the privilege.

 

Years spent under the weight of a safe school

In a wealthy town

With all the food I could eat.

Until one day, I realized

I had not earned this. Yet it was mine.

Instead of feeling guilty, 

I had to use it.

 

Years spent growing,

Using my voice to speak for others,

Learning and being thankful.

Striving for a world where everyone

Has the privilege

To exist.