sinking sidewalks

we came here for a place to stand
but the ground gave out from underneath
and now we tread near troubled water,
reeling from the rising tides
that washed away the footsteps made
walking toward progress.

primetime promises
move through the airwaves like earthquakes
and shake the foundation of freedom.
the ratings rock the richter scale,
leaving temporary damage
and permanent scar tissue.

we'll build your buildings
so you can tear them down
then clean up after
your unnatural disaster.
and wait for relief
from where the sidewalks are stable
and the land separated from sinking sand.

but the wind will one day rally the water
as our spirits will form a fistful of rain
to drown out the oncoming wave of fear
and rebuild our streets
back to the surface.