Poem

Hate is a powerful word that destroys.

I don't like to think about all the hate I see each day. I hear the cries of the innocent before they die. I see the torture they go through. I want it to stop.

Hate is a powerful word that destroys.

I pretend that everything is okay just so I feel better. I can almost feel the sadness in them when someone says or does something out of hatred to them. I touch their hearts by giving them comfort. I worry that hate will go on forever destroying lives. I cry just thinking about it.

Hate is a powerful word that destroys.

I don't understand why people want to hurt others. I say that everyone is different, even you. I dream that all hate crimes will end. I try to help, although there's not too much I can do. I hope that people understand what I mean, and join the fight to end hate crimes.

Hate is a powerful word that destroys.

Lauren Smitelli