They Look Like Us Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

What is going on over there?

'We have everything under control.
And those we have deemed suspicious,
Are currently being closely monitored.
And so far...
Our suspicions are being heightened,
By their unusual activities.'

What ACTIVITIES?

'Well...
In the past couple of hours,
We have spotted a number of them gathering together,
To bump fists with a greeting of one another,
With hugs and warm embraces.'

Would they be wearing dreads?

'Yes.'

Would they be strutting as if they were certain,
Of their identities.
And appearing proud of themselves?

'Yes. Yes.
How did you know that? '

These are the people who advocated protecting everyone,
By signs of terrorist movements in the area.
Who have you spotted that might fit that description?

'Well...
No one really.
Only the regular folks.
You know...
The ones wearing suits and ties.
And several other people walking around,
Carrying loaded backpacks held firmly in place...
By belts and ropes that are snuggly strapped.
Some are wearing berets on their heads.
And dressed in camouflage.
While holding tightly onto what appears musical intruments,
In long leather cases.'

And...
You find nothing suspicious about 'that' at all?

'No. Not really.
They look like us.
And we chose not to offend them.'