What If. . .

It’s sad that kids grow up and lose sight of what matters

They get caught up in the gossipy chatter

That only results in lives getting shattered.

It’s sad that kids grow up and think they already have a full cup,

That they’re cool for wearing make up

And for teasing others instead of standing up.

It’s sad that kids grow up and put others down

For things that should make them proud

Like their ethnic background.

It’s sad that kids grow up and learn to hate

Others for their size and weight

Or the fact that they aren’t straight.

It’s sad that kids grow up and create division

Cuz their peers are of a diff’rent religion

Of which they haven’t the patience to listen.

It’s sad that kids grow up and value politics

Over making new relationships,

Resulting in their apocalypse.

It’s sad that kids grow up and ridule

Others because they think it's cool

When in reality it's only cruel.

It’s sad that kids grow up and care too much about what their peers think

Every mistake makes their confidence shrink

And their self esteem sink.

It’s sad that kids grow up and try to fit in

Cuz when they do that, no one wins.

And this is how humanity’s destruction begins.

. . .

But what if kids across the world made a change,

A kind of pact to not estrange

And to not call others strange.

What if kids grew up and took a stand

To stop fighting and instead hold hands

And cherished diversity among our lands.

What if kids grew up and decided not to practice war,

To accept our differences and what we stand for

In attempt to make our bonds restored.

What if kids grew up and decided it’s been

Time to look past the color of skin

And learn that true character is found within.

What if kids grew up and realized

That things like weight, shape, and size

Do not make beauty compromised.

What if kids grew up and didn’t judge,

And they didn’t hesitate to let go of a grudge

Because they cherish their friendships so much.

What if kids grew up and made the decision

To listen to each others opinions

Regardless of their sexual orientation, race, or religion.

What if kids grew up and learned to love

Others no matter where they’re from

And allowed all hearts to beat as one.

I hope kids grow up to make this pact,

To become proactive instead of react

And set humanity on this new and bright track.