What About My Shot?
I wrote this after the Parkland/MSD High School shooting this past February. The phrase “I remember death so much it feels more like a memory” (from Hamilton) refused leave my mind. I took the spoken word from “The World Was Wide Enough” and adapted it to make it relevant to how students across America feel during this time of gun violence in our schools and our nation. Now, as a freshman in college, I feel ready to share my adaptation with the world, even if the world isn’t ready for it. Not only is it a PSA, but my pledge to work for gun safety across America for the rest of my life. Thank you to Lin Manuel-Miranda for giving the world, and me, words that represent us.
-----
I imagine death so much it feels more like a memory.
Is this where it gets me?
In my seat?
Several desks ahead of me?
I hear him shooting.
Do I run, or hide on the floor, or let it be?
There is no beat, no melody.
Riley, my best friend, my roomie,
Maybe the last person who sits next to me.
Because he will take away my shot, is this how they’ll remember me?
What if his bullet is my legacy?
Legacy. What is a legacy?
It’s planting seeds in a garden legislators refuse to see.
God wrote these words at the beginning of my life that I’d hope no one would have to read,
America, you great, bewildering sovereignty,
You’re deaf to me!
You won’t let us make a difference,
A place where bloodied students leave their fingerprints cuz’ we can’t
Rise up!
We’re running out of time
We’re running, but my time’s up! Wise up! Eyes up.
I catch a glimpse of the other side.
My band director plays with his kindergartener on the other side.
My brother’s on the other side
He’s with my mother on the other side
The Founding Fathers are frowning from the other side
Teach us how to say goodbye!
Rise up
Rise up
Rise up
But, Joseph! my dad, please take your time!
We’ll see you on the other side.
Raise your books for cover.
