The people
gathered early,
Animation on
each face...
Some came only
to listen,
Let others
set the pace.
The issues were
not simple,
Complex to
understand...
Each person
there could have his say,
By raising up
his hand.
It started out
congenial,
But then
progressed from there...
Ideas and
opinions flew,
Caused some
to sit and stare.
The topics
controversial,
With details to
work out...
Normal
conversation rose,
Became
just din and shout.
The loudest
voices that were heard,
And drowned
out almost all...
Came from the
politicians there,
Stopped just
short of a brawl.
With grandiose
gesture,
Promises they
could not meet...
They searched
for words to influence,
Bring people to
their feet.
Neighbor pitted against
neighbor,
As all opinions
flew...
Laced with facts
and myth entwined,
As the
dissension grew.
Mixed in the
words, with clarity,
Were boos and a
few cheers...
Insults like
barbs with careful aim,
Would echo there
for years.
But finally it
was over,
Evidenced by clock on
wall...
Words like
pollution, hung on the air,
At the meeting
in Town Hall.
(c) Loree
(Mason) O'Neil
07/01/07
Midi
playing is: America The
Beautiful
