by Rich Kenney, Jr., MSSW
First Place Practitioner
We cannot change how we see others
It is unwise to think that
We are capable of expanding our views
Because, in reality,
The world is full of labels, slurs, and slights
Even if
We can put ourselves in another’s shoes
Judging and name-calling are the norms
And it’s unreasonable to think
It is all about kindness
Because
Compassion works
Only when it benefits us
It’s not true our integrity counts
I’m sure you can agree that
Empathy is another word for faking it
It’s impossible to endorse the notion that
Showing respect can improve lives
Welcome mats beget bad news
And it’s unsound to assume
It is all about open arms
Since
Embracing diversity can occur
Only when it improves our status
It’s incorrect to believe acceptance pays off
I’m sure you will concur that
Strangers are glaring warning signs
I do not believe that
We can change how we see others
(Now read from bottom to top.)
Rich H. Kenney, Jr., is an associate professor and Social Work Program Director at Chadron State College in Chadron, Nebraska.