NaPM April 13, 2017

[dukealien]

Peccavimus


Great God of Hosts, hear this our true
confession of the humbled race
still known as “white,” your servants, Lord
who scourged Your world in pride alone
with never thought we should atone
for what we did to those we found
beyond the sea we cowardly
crossed over; only evil, lust
for gold and slaves, aggrandizement,
our faith a sham, our fervor to
improve the lot of tribes and give
them longer life, the rule of law
and simple decency - all false;
we never meant to help or heal
no goodness ours, all pride, all pride.

See how since we have let them go
because they, our superiors
in morals, ethics, legal thought
sweet dignity and poetry
can manage so much better by
themselves without our clutching hands
that held them back.  Now on they fare
free, independent, governed by
benevolence of native sons
without the pride or greed which we
displayed by going out to them
they thrive in honor, governed well
without corruption, war, or strife
now that our villainies are gone
they revel without pride, in peace.

Hear our confession, God of Hosts
for You, Lord, Who gave law and life
must surely see the truth of it.