I have seen

Clenched fists smash into an astonished face,
as blood splashes, punches increase in pace.
Crumpling into submission, boots are used,
racial slurs accompanies each rib bruised.
(I have seen hate.)

A needle pulses while dispensing death,
eyes dilated, choking each ragged breath.
Trembling in human waste as strangers gawk,
screaming out nightmares, slipping into shock.
(I have seen fear.)

A vacant look lingers, summoning tears,
staring at the past as it disappears.
Packing up life to exist on the street,
sacrificing pride to cope with defeat.
(I have seen despair.)

A wounded soldier cries out in great pain,
while holding his guts as a bloody stain.
A shadow creeps undeterred to the man,
a scared face brings help as quick as he can.
(I have seen loyalty.)

Icy waters grip the child like a vise,
Its feeble struggles failing to suffice.
Water splashes as a mother jumps in,
clutching her child, warming next to her skin.
(I have seen love.)

Soft new smells sparking feelings dearly felt,
as you touch skin so soft it seems to melt.
A baby is born, a gift from above,
as twinkling eyes search for fragments of love.
(I have seen hope.)