51
An Alternate Universe
Mukund Gnanadesikan
Do not walk a mile in another’s shoes
But in his skin instead
Now behold the wide-eyed glances
The steps taken backward
Fists balled in fearful preparation.
What do you see now?
Not in the mirror
But in the crosswalk
On the subway platform
In line at the drugstore
Look behind you
Now do you understand?
Toxic mortality spills
Through every door
Through every leaky window
Now you must see below the surface
The Devil disguised in a cleric’s frock
Or the judge’s flowing robe
Or a tight blue uniform
Decorated with a tarnished silver badge.