Shifting Images Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

Remember when mean spirited people,
Told their ethnic jokes.
And those within listening distance,
Would repeat them and laughed...
As they undermined and disrespected,
While poking at those 'other' folks.

And remember those days,
People felt safe to offend others.
As if they were entitled,
To proclaim publicly their druthers.
As some around them quietly endured,
And suffered.

Remember when people were hired to window dress?
To give an impression an acceptance was 'allowed'...
Although uncomfortably addressed.
And remember when it was expected,
Those with their noses turned up in the air...
Would climb on their high horses,
And remain forever there!

Remember when mean spirited people,
Told their ethnic jokes.
And those within listening distance,
Would repeat them and laughed...
As they undermined and disrespected,
While poking at those 'other' folks.

Remember when Roger Miller sang:
'England swings like a pendulum do,
Bobbies on bicycles two by two.
Westminster Abbey the tower of Big Ben.
The rosy red cheeks of the little children.'

That song was written in 1965.
The same year I decided to join the military.
It was considered to be a 'country' song then.
Filled with playful and innocent cuteness.

Today?
It just seems like an ironic satire,
With several shifting images.
No one these days,
Seems that inspired to acquire.

Note:
'Thank you, Mister Roger Miller'
Composer/Singer

~lsp~