When I consider
All that I’ve seen,
passing across
my TV screen;
I am rich in travel
to far off lands,
not moving my seat,
or lifting my hands.
I am a sedentary
traveller brave,
over arctic wastes
or down a cave;
climbing trees in
steaming heat,
gazing in a volcano
lying at my feet.
The rarest animals
and insects roam,
before my eyes
and into my home.
Learned voices tell
me the facts
of species’ struggles
and desperate acts.
I have seen palaces
turned to dust,
proud constructions
reduced to rust.
Passing before me
vast galaxies,
computer generated
new fantasies.
Voyeurs in space
travelling the world,
seeing countless people
around us whirled.
Huge crowds in squares
chanting their rage,
at brutal dictators,
rattling their cage.
Never has so much
come our way.
News and travel
filling each day.
We are true citizens
entitled to know
the unfolding story –
but not as a show.
Reach out beyond
the screen’s embrace,
and unite yourself
with the human race
Social media now
is empowering us;
challenge injustice
out to devour us.
Raise your voices
join a new cause,
people need action
not our applause.
Good news for all
not just the few;
imagine the future,
make it come true.
October 6th 2020