I am not one to preface my work with an explanation and I have never believed good poetry needs one. Today though, I feel as though this work stands stronger with the explanation of how it came to be. As I was leaving the house this morning, a day in which the 45th president of the United States will be sworn into office, I thought to myself, is there anything you should say to your loved ones before you leave today?
It shocked me that this thought entered my mind and I pictured the words rolling out of my mouth, “If I don’t make it home…” Are there any secrets that I should share? Are there any unresolved feelings? Is there something that would make my loved ones unable to feel closure after I am gone? Also, why the hell would I think this?
We are not just stepping into a new country today, we are stepping into a new world. Every action made today impacts the globe; the politics of one country affect everyone on this planet. One tweet from our new president could cause a war, both within our country and against it. More importantly, our actions can also be heard ’round the world.
You may support the soon-to-be President Trump. You may despise him. But remember, he ran a campaign on hatred. Move forward with positivity whether he is your president or not. Life is made of choices, make sure you make ones with which you can live. These words come from both the New Testament (Ephesians 4:32) and Ellen, so whichever you choose to acknowledge please take them to heart. Be kind to one another.
Without further ado, the poem you’ve been waiting for:
If I don’t make it home,
there are a few things you should know.
I’ve hidden money in our spot
in case I had to go.
My favorite memory of life
is the day you stole my heart
which would have been second
to the family we hoped to start.
Please know I didn’t want this,
as the choice was not mine to make;
my choice is always you
it’s another’s choice to take.
The press will say it’s all your fault,
but believe me, it’s just not true.
Hatred claimed my life that day,
not my love for you.
Autumn Siders 
So well written, Autumn. Hate does beget hate and love begets love and that message is so appropriate today of all days. You are wise beyond your years and I love you.
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