Editor’s note: Haverhill native and poet Raymond F. Comeau’s latest work, “Standing Up,” encourages citizens to think about the value of truth and freedom in a democracy and compels them to act for the benefit of all.
The poet alludes to Haverhill’s favorite son, poet John Greenleaf Whittier who stood up himself against political corruption, worker exploitation and slavery.
Comeau, now of Belmont, is a retired dean and current lecturer at Harvard University Extension School. He is also a trustee, emeritus, of the John Greenleaf Whittier Birthplace in Haverhill.
STANDING UP
Danger was there
Even as a child
When you crawled like a lizard
At the mercy of every rug
Then struggled to climb the couch
And finally
You took a single wobbly step
That changed it all
For grown-ups it’s a different scene
A job a reputation
Family and plans
Cicero stood up in ancient Rome
Making the sacrifice
For us the likes of King Thoreau
Whittier and Parks
Now we’re the ones
Will lies humiliate truth
Tyranny freedom
And silence democracy
© Raymond Comeau December 2024