Grateful

Words, images, thoughts
Whirl through my head
As I try to imagine the pain,
The torture, the loss

I can picture it,
But not the way he does
I think I feel it
But the feelings are fleeting

What kind of person
Does this make me
Am I without compassion
Do I lack understanding

What I feel is grateful
For my birthplace
My freedom, my heritage
And its privileges

Privileges that cost others
Blood, sweat, tears, a life
Privileges that cost me
Hard looks, tears, harsh words

Is my gratitude misplaced
Because I make up the haves
And countless, faceless others
Make up the have-nots

Is it right to be grateful
Because I can say
My experiences could never compare
To those of many innocent others

It may not be right
But it is what it is
I pray for the deliverance of others
And offer thanksgiving for me