I Ask

Painting by Robert Tate

I Ask


I lay down my knife
beside your gun,
And ask . . .
Is it good, that we not fight?


I give you my blanket,
In return for your coat
And ask . . .
Is it good, that we exchange?


I give you my land
In return for your progress
And ask . . .
Is it good, that we advance?


I share with you my beliefs,
In return for your beliefs,
And ask . . .
Why . . .
Is it good that we lose our identity?


Pam Taylor
Cherokee