Yes, Again.

As I walk into school, I imagine seeing couples kissing, holding heart-shaped cards and candy.

Instead, I'm seeing black and orange, ribbons being held to hearts.

Not again.

The morning announcements confirm my suspicions:

"...Today is February 14th, Valentine's Day and anniversary of Parkland. Please take a moment of silence."

It has never been so quiet.

No one stands for the flag.

The silence perseveres with us.

Inspired by the stillness, I begin to write:

"Oranges and blacks

will not stop their bullets.

Our silence

will not stop their silencers.

Are guns

worth more than daughters and sons?"