Some honor him “with their lips,” talking about him having a dream

While deep inside, now like then, they consider his vision too extreme.

Some honor him “with their lips,” preaching about him on the mountaintop

While, like wolves in shepherds’ clothing, they erect idols to lure the sheep into their plot.

Some honor him “with their lips,” applauding his work for equality and the vote

As they seek to be “more equal than others” and market democracy like its Diet Coke.

Some honor him “with their lips,” discussing his planned march with the poor

Yet they resist the notion of allotting land to help stimulate more.

Some honor him “with their lips,” celebrating the national holiday

With speeches, songs and battle of the bands but the rest of the year have nothing to say.

Some honor him “with their lips,” awarding his stance on nonviolence and peace

While they wage war, in the name of gold, to control the resources, info and psyche.

Some honor him “with their lips,” showing their true colors and character

As they gather to worship or socialize; hiding behind delusional barriers.

Some honor him “with their lips,” ignoring his final public phrase

That quoted a radical battle hymn; foretelling the coming of decisive days.

Many honor him with sincerity, teaching the children to do the same,

So perhaps there’s still hope that his dream was not in vain.

John Briggs

Roxie resident