THE TROPHY

[Cropduster]

THE TROPHY

Who of us are so truly deserving
to step forth and accept the prize
for strides of humanitarian efforts
when it's clear in the look in their eyes
that the suffering, pain and the torment
is as real to them this very day
as it was when they first chose to flee from
the horrors of lands far away.

Can we please end this labelling people
as migrants and as refugees?
Have they not suffered enough cruel injustice?
Can't you see that they're down their knees
just looking for simple compassion
from what should be their fellow man.
Some space to experience freedom,
a place in this far reaching land.

Don't tell me that we are fulfilling
our quotas on border patrol.
Don't tell me we're turning back vessels
with children crammed down in the hold.
Don't say that we meet obligations
with children detained behind wire.
Don't give me your passionate speeches
I will just call you out as a liar.

If you hold yourself up as a leader,
proclaiming to set high the bar,
then lead like a leader should lead us,
show the world who Australians are.
Throw open the gates of detention.
Throw open our hearts and our minds.
Throw open our arms and embrace them.
Accept them as fellow mankind.

Our differences make us grow stronger.
The tapestry weavers unveil
a blueprint for a brighter future
if we all get behind a wet sail
and set course for trouble free water,
a lagoon to shelter from harm,
where we all can share in our freedom,
where freedom is not just for some.

So before reaching out for that trophy,
before soaking up the applause,
be sure that your efforts are worthy,
be sure that the aim of your cause
is to better prepare for our future,
to embrace those who look to our shores,
for then you may accept your trophy,
It is then that the prize will be yours.

Copyright (c) Allan Cropper August 2015