Surrendering Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

Excuse me.
I just got off the train.
How best do I get to Pinecrest Drive?
I new around here.
And I am making a surprise visit.
To see friends and distant relatives.
I have not seen in many years.
Uh...hmmm.
Those people.
The ones holding their arms with hands up?
Is this some kind of community ritual?

"No.
Not really.
But it seems everyday,
More are making it to become that way.
They have given up.
Like others they too are surrendering."

Surrendering?
Surrendering to what?
God?

"If only.
But no.
They have been convinced.
Pointless it is to pretend,
They can defend themselves against...
The overwhelming ignorance.
So they have stopped protesting.
To believe there is no end to it.
It is sad to see.
Much has changed around here.
And that's their way to show unity."

And you?
Why aren't your arms and hands not up?
Why not?

"Well.
If you look closely.
My hands are behind my back.
Handcuffed.
There are a few of us left.
Still praying with hope and determined faith.
We are going to remain with positive thoughts.
And staying that way to know God,
Will one day arrive.
To eliminate all this crazy stuff.
And you?
How long will be your visit? "

Uh...?
I...uh...me?
Let's see.
Maybe...
An hour or two.
Or less.
You know how some folks can be.
When surprised unexpectedly.

"I know what you mean.
I can be like that myself.
And what was that street you were looking for?
Pine...? "

I'll find it.
I've got a few minutes.
I'll give them a call.
One never knows.
Maybe I should have told them I was coming.

"Yeah.
They may have already made plans,
Of their own."