There’s a part of me that is afraid to write. I’m afraid to get it wrong. But writing nothing doesn’t feel right, either. So, when I read the daily email from the New York Times, I found a poem of voices from the protestors.
In every city, there’s a George Floyd–
Margaret Simon, found poem from New York Times June 2, 2020
my father, my brother, my cousin, my friend–
I speak for everybody
beaten up. If we don’t fight
for change, we’re not going to get it.
I took six rubber bullets, but
no one kneeled on my neck.
I came out peacefully
to show my support,
Yeah, it’s really like that.
Reflections on the Teche 
“There’s a part of me that is afraid to write. I’m afraid to get it wrong. But writing nothing doesn’t feel right, either.” I am so glad you decided to write. It might be possible that each one of us feels this way at some point. I felt this way as I searched for just the write quote for today’s SOL post, for just the right slice to share, and even now to respond to you. It is all new and all challenging, but we must all keep trying. Thank you for deciding to write.
It’s so hard to know what to say. The words you found are perfect. Thank you for sharing.
Margaret, thank you for your powerful found poem, NYT’s article, and photo. Reading both gave me chills and helped me to process my own feelings. I hear the honesty and emotions through your poem; they move me. What an honor you have given the protesters. You definitely got it right! Perhaps, you could have your heartfelt poem published.
Thank you for sharing. Your writing is important!
Thank you, Margaret. This is a powerful found poem.
Margaret, thank you for sharing and for being so vulnerable–“There’s a part of me that is afraid to write. I’m afraid to get it wrong. But writing nothing doesn’t feel right, either.” Your poem is perfect, magnifying the voices of the protesters.
You got it right, Margaret – in your found poem, the photo, in your raw honesty. You always give me courage, as if you see right into my heart and give it voice.
Thanks Margaret, for your post, for sharing all, and writing your powerful poem!
I know what you mean. It is difficult to put yourself out there when issues are hot and heavy. I think your poem is representative of a found poem with true emotion. Thanks for sharing this.