through

through
  alleyways
  bikes
riders past
trash
cans
cats
litter
potholes
  out of
cracks
  shanty houses
near
thrifty drug stores
cigarette billboards
smart enough
away
from
traps
so we
are not rats
chasing cheese
strugglers confused-not.
out of chance
but thoughtful
consideration
   love
understanding
violence is
that which settles on
children when
they hunger for
respect
pride
dignity
knowledge away
from
criminal indoctrinations
  of Horatio Alger
stories.
cjackoleanlópez