Standing Rock

They came with trucks
and machines and guns
to pipe their liquid gold.

The water and hills
and all life therein
to the highest bidder sold.

Politicians and newsmen
look the other way,
afraid to break the mold

while men and women are
gassed and sprayed
with water freezing cold.

On hearts and minds
this struggle maintains
an unyielding, striking hold.

Our times and values
will be judged by this:
by this our history told.

Of those who protected
water, and those
who would rather fold.

Of a world lush for
the young, or trapped in
the greed of the old.