Keith M. Kelley | Poet

The following six-word stories are based on events I saw on a bike ride on June 25, 2020. The scene almost looked “staged” as it unfolded in front of me. Unfortunately, because I was riding in heavy traffic, I couldn’t take a picture or video.

Keith M. Kelley

103. Observed “quality time” at reopened playground.

104. Women recording video of themselves twerking.

105. Men “supervising” children with illegal fireworks.

106. Men passing a brown paper bag.

26.

Radical self-care

is revolutionary

for the “underserved.”

27.

“Black on Black crime” is

racist, and a deflection

to skew narratives.

#BLM or #blacklivesmatter is a hashtag not an omnibus or silver bullet to address all the racial issues of this country (world). Americans tend to like things quick and convenient. The dramatical changes we need to heal this country (world) require hard collaborative work. They are neither quick nor convenient. Instead of asking, “What about Black on Black crime?” Try a asking “What can I do to promote a climate and culture of love and healing?” Shit, that might even help address “White on White” crime. Cultural change is multifaceted and nonlinear. That’s not to say that you can’t compare apples to oranges. Of course you can! Why do you think they’re both in the “produce” section? The “what about Black on Black crime” question begs for orange juice to be made from Granny Smith apples!