Poems and Thoughts    by Frank Maurer

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The Wisdom of the Inexperienced. I was talking with my ophthalmologist about world affairs In the few extra minutes we are allowed in our pressured medical world. He said it was, "Too bad that our (USA) students Should be demonstrating about Gaza." His thought took me back to my Vietnam-demonstrating days. The country was then in turmoil, some of my family even disowning me, But we finally stopped the brutal, horrible, unnecessary war, And now we are friendly and trading-allies! Today, the Palestinian situation of injustice has commenced long enough, And a just Two State Solution is what must obtain. Religion, guilt and fervor entwined us in this--mess. For my whole life I have endured and anguished with these conflicting peoples. Uncomfortable as it may be, are once again our students correct? Students are lacking in much experience and knowledge, But there is a childlike, youthful innocence towards what is right. Thinking human animals often create uncomfortable situations, But youth, where and when they are allowed to speak, Often show what is the right and just path. They are the ones, when contemplating the implications of their future lives, Who resist their stagnant elders, mired in their indecision, And cry out, "We do not want to inherit the world you are presenting us!" Unlike their tired elders, youth are full of energy And that energy often is directed towards a better life Which they wish to pursue into their unknown futures. Frank Maurer 28 April 2024 0540 Hours.