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Open Poetry #15
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Joyce Johnson
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Member Rara Avis
since 2001-03-10
Posts 9912
Washington State

0 posted 2001-09-15 07:42 PM


Yesterday,
my friend and I
traveled by train
to visit our friendly neighbor in the north.
Canada.  Across that border,
for over 200 years,
we have been traveling back and forth
in perfect harmony.

Going
we had no difficulty.
Only needing to answer
a few polite questions
before being free,
to travel their safe streets.

Coming home was another matter entirely.
Delayed for over an hour
by customs and police
from our own country.
Baggage was searched,
four checkpoints where
we needed to give our I D.

A blue turbaned, dark-skinned
gentleman in that long line,
was treated as gently as were we
with our many generational
perfect American pedigree.
It was all politely done,
but not really fun.

I understand that
traveling by car,
the wait at the border
is three hours.
No one fussed or made a scene.
This will be the way
until there is no fear
caused by unknown foes.
We'll have to shrug and say,
"That's the way it goes."

By: Joyce 9/5/01


[This message has been edited by Joyce Johnson (edited 09-16-2001).]

© Copyright 2001 Joyce I Johnson - All Rights Reserved
Sunshine
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Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354
Listening to every heart
1 posted 2001-09-15 08:13 PM



I know a 92 year old woman who uses that line...it has stood her in good stead for many a year...and she is still here!

cruz
Member
since 2000-07-18
Posts 282
Dallas,Texas USA
2 posted 2001-09-15 11:18 PM


this is pretty cool. it reads very fast and i like it!  well said

Balladeer
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Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505
Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA
3 posted 2001-09-15 11:57 PM


well worth it if it saves lives as I have no doubt you agree with...we're in for a lot of pains in the butt, I'm afraid    
Mysteria
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Member Laureate
since 2001-03-07
Posts 18328
British Columbia, Canada
4 posted 2001-09-16 01:04 AM


Our border are backed up something fierce that is for sure.  However, under the circumstances, I think the precautions are worth it.  Hope you enjoyed your visit.  

~*Be Kind To Your Fellow Man, Lend Him A Helping Hand, Put A Little Love In Your Heart*~

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