Human Rights - The Banner Of Equality Poem by Bernedita Rosinha Pinto

Books of law consists of so many articles and sections
to protect human rights and enhance justice
yet when murder, rape or crimes occur
the victim in the cell of recuperation or coffin rests
and the hands of law never can revive the life,
the chastity or regeneration
when the victim succumbs to violence, negligence and dis-regard;
what is humanity if as we walk we have no concern
for the existence, the honor and tranquility of another?
What is justice if once the injury and damage has occurred
and later come those punishments, penalties and reforms?
How can man commit crime against another
when his mind can evaluate that righteousness
is the virtue that brings blessings unto oneself?
Yet, the ignorance of law, the provocation of thoughts
the discrimination, the racism, the intolerance to other faiths
ignite crimes against people, women and children
though society stands as a bridge, as a sentinel
but the one who faces the wrath cries alone, sleeps alone
whether in a hospital bed or in a prison cell
or in the bosom of this earth.
Discard those banners of hatred,
those wars are not just wars,
they are sins against humanity,
they are crimes against women and children,
they displace people and make them refugees;
respect the fundamental rights of others,
the right to live freely is God's first gift to man
and man's gift to humanity;
vow unto yourself - I will believe in my rights
and as much will I believe in the rights of others;
I will uphold the safety and peace around me
so that safety and peace prevails around my home.
I will respect and value humanity
as much as I revere God.