ENTITLEMENT

Entitled to What?

The Revolutionary heroes

fought for individual rights.

I'm content, pleased to live under democracy.

Though not always successfully,

our country has slowly but surely

turned the treatment of children around.

No longer slaves in factories,
but students treated as equally

as we limited human beings can.

We've welcomed others here.

At least as well as human beings can.

Earnestly reaching out to all.

Unfortunatly 200 years into this experiment

we have become entitled,

self centered citizens.

And I'm not precluding myself.

The 60's caused radical societal changes:

Bringing to an end marginalized citizens different from the majority.
(NOT the moral majority!)

Understanding fragile limits in energy, water, and food.

Opening our eyes to the delicate relations between cultures,

interdependence of earths creatures and us.

This was good, I wouldn't take that part back.

At the same time, we became hedonists,
demanding our way,

at our pleasure,
at our pace.
Demanding service, merchandise, caretaking...immediately.

I stand at the microwave, "Come on!! Hurry it up!"

I stare at the computer, "Down load the website already!"
I wait for groceries with impatience.

I fume at the slow pace of traffic.

Little recognition of the instant miracles taking place.
Little appreciation.

Griping about my life.

Rich as Solomon and unappreciative.
I'm entitled.

As Compared to What!?

I think a reality check is due!

Where is that ATTITUDE of GRATITUDE?

Better get it going!