When I was in the navy a colleague of mine
Said there would be a race war. I blew the man off.
Since I had to work with him each and every day
He’d reiterate hatred the pure racist way.
His intent, although clear, only caused me to scoff
Though I couldn’t take his sentiment as benign.

Did I need him to tell me some decades ago
Of volcanic activity deep in the earth
That will one day erupt into fervent bloodshed?
I’m aware there are those who wish all niggers dead.
But I wasn’t taught any of this since my birth
From my down to earth family. Shouldn’t it show?

I’ll avoid confrontation. My life is at stake.
My restraint must be maximum so I’ll survive
Both the prelude to warfare and tragic outcome.
White supremacists will go on beating their drum
To stir up the excitement. While I am alive
I’ll keep doing what I’m doing with no heartache.

All I’ll use is my voice. It’s enough to withstand
Every manner of ordnance the era calls for.
There are those who, much younger, still have a good fight.
They may march to the front line and do what is right.
Is there nothing in warfare that we can abhor?
If there’s not then predictions will proceed as planned.