Unable To Overcome Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

Already disenfranchised and divided,
By an historical lack of identity.
And mythical religious beliefs,
With no respect shown towards one another.
Or a collective integrity that encourages,
Strengths to share and from them to grow.

They will always seek to be offended first.
As if stranded on the Sahara Desert,
And desiring to quench a thirst.

But over-rehearsed are their insecurities,
Kept within the color of their skins.
And daily reminded of them to keep 'themselves',
Unable to overcome by a succumbing,
To the depths of embedded ignorance.
And 'this' is celebrated as if part of their heritage.