Our first journey is the one we are forced to make
when we come forth from the warm security of the womb
compelled by a force that tolerates no resistance, and we
find ourselves in a cold new world alone and vulnerable.
We are forced to find our way across the border of the womb
in the same bewildered and fearful way that the vulnerable
victims of injustice and intolerance must also find their way
across the armed borders of rejection and prejudice.
Happy are the newborn wayfarers who find the courage
to cross the fortified borders of all their fears, and move
forward with confidence into a new world of opportunity
where hope is made tangible in waiting hands of welcome.