It’s over
but it isn’t
we made a choice
millions of us
we know who America wants
seventy-four million have spoken
but will he be the one
to lead us
out of darkness?
we wait
it’s not over.
It’s day 4
keep counting
keep reporting
keep it going
the nation is watching you
with pride
as you work through the piles
checking, cross-checking, scanning
days into nights, nights into days
our fate is in your hands
keep it up, take your time
slow and steady
wins the race
whatever the outcome
poll workers
you are the winners.
“Patience in the face of adversity”
God extols us in the Quran
patience, when our patience is put to the test
slow unfolding of results
day after day
compelled us
to take a breather
push the pause button
switch off the TV
take a walk
take in the changing colors
feel the warmth
of the November sun
let the heart beat at its pace.
Like a loved one dying slowly
over weeks and months
we gradually, reluctantly, mentally
prepare ourselves
to accept our loss.
my candidate is winning
he may still lose
yet, I hope this drawn-out process
has prepared us
each side
to accept our loss.
I no longer hold my breath
whatever will be, will be
we gave it our best shot
let the votes fall where they may
may our leaders
from their pulpits,
media pundits, elected officials, clergy
exhort calm
and move forward
to heal our pain
heal our divide
elbows touching
I extend my hand.
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