what happened

what happened?
they asked
their eyes
their ears
straining
seemingly lacking any realization
that there is no rationalization
for things that never changed

what happened?
came the rallying cries of
patriots
zealots
innocence replied
nothing really
just your worldview rearranged

never forget
is what they claim
with every generation
but in silence remains
the denial

of what happened?
and still their voices
echoing onward over the
sighs of the dead

Often I am told or over hear discussion of people who grew up here, frequently stated how they hated being here (nothing ever happens here, nothing ever changes, nothing will ever change, etc.). These people move to the so-called ‘big city,’ returning ever so often to remind up how much better off they are being away from here. As if that would change a person? The irony over time some of these seemingly provincial people return and stay. Or, they get older, become families and decide it would be better to raise their children here. So, is it where you are or who you are that matters?