When Did It Begin? Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

When did it begin?
The open mouths and closed ears.
Those not understanding to comprehend.
But choosing to voice their unsolicited opinions.

When did it begin?
Who refused to see the signs of it?
To then not admit yet ignored them for what they were.
With comments made that a truth to hear,
They found repulsive and much too negative.

Today more are making attempts to claim,
Signs intentionally displayed for them...
Were not specific in getting their attention.

Today more are making attempts to blame,
Others to depict...
As the ones who had restricted them,
To choices they themselves have made...
To degrade and disrespect themselves in harmful ways.

When did it begin?
Who refused to see the signs of it?
To then not admit yet ignored them for what they were.
With comments made that a truth to hear,
They found repulsive and much too negative.

And now with profound truth surrounding them,
They are still not convince...
Truth is not a new invention nor can truth,
Be victimized by pretense.
Truth is to be as is and never went anywhere.
It is 'they' who did not care to hear or see it there...
For what it was,
Is...
And has always been.

Yet in a kept protest they want others to listen.
Yet in a kept protest they want others to hear,
How they have come to face threats to their existence.

But...
When did it begin?
The open mouths and closed ears.
Those not understanding to comprehend.
But choosing to voice their unsolicited opinions.

When did it begin?
Who refused to see the signs of it?
To then not admit yet ignored them for what they were.
With comments made that a truth to hear,
They found repulsive and much too negative.