Photo by Jason Williard (1981-2016); used by permission.
Taken at the Portland International Rose Test Garden

If we respond with hate
to their spewing of hatred
we only multiply hatred in the world

If we react in fear
when they rattle their sabers
we only perpetuate the battle

Instead
we can turn our backs
withdraw our energy
from the chaos
focus on shining our love
into the world
accepting one another
right where we stand
Gift our energy
to the creating of peace

© Victoria Polmatier, 2020
https://www.victoriapolmatier.com

Photo credit:
Jason Williard (1983-2016)
Location: Portland International Rose Test Garden