I Wonder

“I Wonder” Poetry, written

in response to Leon’s Story

Amanda Stewart:

I wonder what made Americans think they were so different?

I wonder why Americans chose this bloody path?

I wonder what American children were thinking when they were disgracing Blacks?

I wonder how Blacks felt, listening to their past, year after year?

I wonder why Americans chose to do this, did it make them feel powerful, or did they do it because of what others were doing?

I wonder if it was all about skin color or did it go deeper?

**************************************************

Allie Day, written from Leon's perspective:

I wonder what would happen if I wasn't black?

I wonder if people would treat me differently?

I wonder if they would still hurt my father?

I wonder why white folks never help?

I wonder what would happen if I wasn't black?

I wonder would I make a difference?

I wonder what would happen if I attempted to create an equal world?

I wonder if people would shop in the same stores,drink from the same fountain?

I wonder what happen if I wasn't black?

**************************************************

Hanna Willwerth:

I wonder how Leon could be strong enough to overcome the hardships and pain, and then forgive the men who did him so much wrong?

I wonder if it takes more courage and strength to fight peacefully and non-violently, then it does to have a full, blown out war, full of hatred and murder?

I wonder why we are still learning to forgive and to live in peace, while a mistreated nation has already known that war is not the answer?

I wonder how you could bring yourself to cheat an honest man, then take his money and land, while he knew nothing?

I wonder how many other people have voices like Leon, that need to be heard, that one day we might find the power and love and forgiveness that Leon has.