A Poem The Day After The Nashville School Shooting – The Chattanoogan

 I would lay down my life for you

But I shouldn’t have to

I would spread my arms wide

Make myself big

So you could hide behind

And be small

But I shouldn’t have to

I would cover the windows

Lock the only door

Stack up the furniture 

From ceiling to floor

But I shouldn’t have to

We would talk very quickly

Decide what to do

Evacuate or barricade?

But we shouldn’t have to

We would run with hands up

To show we’re no threat

But we shouldn’t have to

I know what to do

In my own little room

How to hide so no one is seen

But why do I have to?

So I will spread my arms wide

Hold you all close

Let you know you are loved

You are seen

You are mine

Because for me and for you

I have to

Katie Groves Maciulewicz