out of the dark comes the light

i wonder what we'd do
if we knew our time was due
or that the storm was never ending
would we ever stop pretending?

i wonder what they'd say
if the forests burned away
or they heard the children screaming
or saw the banners streaming

would anyone stop to care
if strangers were in despair?
if the river ran its shore,
or the levee was no more?

how many people have to die
before we hear them cry?
before we lend a hand?
before we give a damn?

who taught you to be brave
or to give all that you gave?
was it the gentle urging of your mother,
or the rough-housing of your brother?

i'd like to know when we'll understand
our many wondered land
and finally come to aid
all those who must be saved

i can't seem to help but feel
that the dream could become real
when no person dies alone
or lives without food, water, or home

if we could only be
the change we wish to see
maybe then we could inspire
only then will we reach higher