I rage
I rage against so much that I cannot handle all this pain in my body
I refuse to submit to the numbness of apathy
Of the sugar coated nihilism of easy escape plans
Halfhearted shrugs
This is the way it’s always been
And they move clockwise, another cog in this blood soaked, dying machine

I rage against it all
Scream to jumpstart the momentum
Force myself to stay standing 
Move against those shoving me back
I exhale and run due north
Where change lies and a better future waits for us

– Amanda Leon

Author’s Note: I wrote this poem after a school shooting occurred in the news, and witnessed a congressman’s response to the question if there was anything lawmakers could do to pass gun control or any measures to keep children safe. The congressman shrugged his shoulders and walked away.

This poem is about going against those in power who do not have the interests of the people, who would rather put profit over the lives of their constituents. It’s a radical act in this world to care for one another and to keep hope in the face of the siren song of apathy.