By Lynn Adams Barzé, Guest writer
The Picayune Item
PICAYUNE —
It’s been a long time since I wrote this poem on April 4, 1968, I was filled with emotion over the shocking occurrence. And, of course, all has been settled since then. However, some of the expressions of anxiety expressed in this poem are still pertinent today. The fear of violence, misuse of weapons, crime and the disrespect of laws of our nation are pitifully still real among us.
While the work of the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., has led to fairer treatment of minorities, the elderly, women, the physically handicapped, children and the mentally challenged in both civil and social situations, his message of peace, non-violence and adherence to the law is being ignored in America and indeed other countries of the world as well.
Many are working to protect children from abuse, free women from oppression and speak for those who can’t speak for themselves. Still, there is so much more to be remembered of the words of this man. He did not only speak for racial equality but also for peaceful resolutions of problems and non-violence toward each other.
He was the man of God who loved his country and wanted the best for humanity in general. I do believe the crime and violence in America today shows little effort in bringing his intentions to reality.
No one should need to be afraid to go to work, to school or an evening’s outing if we all take proper responsibility for the use of our possessions and the people around us.
We can all be called “An Apostle of Peace.”
Lynne Adams Barze’ — Feb. 13, 2013
Well now I hope they’re satisfied;
I hope they realize what they have done.
They’ve killed a man who was good for all.
A man who sought change through peace, rather than a gun.
You’d think they’d know we’ve troubles enough
with our country at its present state.
There’s chaos present with political affairs,
and communists knocking at every gate.
I guess they thought they were ending something;
doing a dreadful deed that would set back the cause.
But all they did was destroy God’s worker
and help put into effect the violence clause.
Now this man they killed loved his people,
and he loved his country all the same.
He worked for the good and success of both,
not just to gain headlines and selfish fame.
But the killer of this man will not go unharmed;
he won’t have time to look back and feast.
God is just and will not let rest
the slayer of “The Apostle of Peace.”
Lynne Adams — April 4, 1968
