(After Debe)
I couldn’t do it, ‘Ma.
I had the best opportunity,
the very one I’d sought
and could have done great work
to win
but I failed
miserably.

In my grasp
I had my enemy
and a chance to discuss
honestly, truly
what separated us.
I could have taken advantage
and learned more about our divisions.
I could have worked
to bridge the divide.

I wanted to.
I spoke of such a thing
just the other day
but today
I yelled.
I fought.
I took up the spear
rather than speak well to my enemy.

I had my cheek ready,
waiting to be turned.
Instead
I spat on his.