We, Outside the Gates

Emperors have placed their fortitude 

in walls before

without realizing that strength was always in numbers

and voices

that chant

the same battle cry

in solidarity.

And when the crowd you want with you

becomes the crowd that shows up to oppose you--

it's time.

Time to rethink the next vital moments. 

Time to retreat. 

Time to apologize.

Time to leave 

what is not broken

alone.

Because

when we, outside the gates,

become informed,

begin to think critically,

begin to ask questions,

begin to demand answers

                                        together

we won't need to knock

with our fists

anymore.