Outside my window,
Violence and healing used to coexist.

I used to see children playing soccer on the pavement,
Beautiful paintings on the walls with no signs of defacement.
I used to hear laughter and joyful hymns nearby,
The music from across the street acted as my lullaby.

All I see now are tires burning with thick, black smoke,
Sometimes so close I choke.
All I hear now are cries so deep,
Sounds of gunshots put me to sleep.

Outside my window,
Violence and healing now resist.