How many divided borders must I cross
before I experience the meaning of rejection?
How many “Do Not Enter” signs must I read
before I see myself as a person of prejudice?
How many lifeless deserts must I trek
before I begin to taste the manna of acceptance?
How many troubled waters must I navigate
before I lay myself down as a bridge?
How many wastelands of poverty must I witness
before I share with others the Balm of Gilead?
And how long must I sit beneath the Bodhi Tree
before I get up… knowing who I truly am?