Food Doesn't Grow Here Anymore*

In the western highlands of Guatemala

Living conditions are turning sour

As people face adversity,

Day by day, hour by hour.

 

Climate change is taking a toll

On the lives of many, especially the poor.

When asked why they're fleeing, they say,

"Food doesn't grow here anymore."

 

The growth of many of their children is stunted;

Children are dying of malnutrition.

The parents want what all people want

Who find themselves in their position:

 

They want to leave, to find a place

Where their children can survive--

Where life is not an overwhelming

Challenge of trying to stay alive.

 

They know the journey north is hard;

Some have died along the way.

What are their options? To take a chance?

One thing's certain: they die if they stay.

 

Our government threatens to cut off aid

Which would only make matters worse.

That will not stop desperate people

From fleeing; it will do the reverse.

 

Hear the cries from Guatemala.

Don't close your eyes or cover your ears.

A ghostly lament will echo along

The banks of a dried up river of tears.

 

-by Bob B (6-7-19)

*Based on a report by Nicholas Kristof