The Contrasting Colors of Society
Them who survive rather than live
They who mask to sense acceptance
Those who dream and those who do
They’re always waiting for something to ensue
These are the ones who break too soon
And they leave, always wishing they could have been with you.
Charles Randolph
About this poem
Our society has changed and raised the standard of living in many ways. This is wonderful. However, it leaves me with a question: where would I — and others like me (epileptics, chronic pain patients, neurodivergent individuals) — be if not for the social safety net we’ve built? Would nature nurture me, keep me here, make space for my contributions? No, nature would most likely be nature despite my intentions to contribute rather then to burden.
This may seem harsh, but it’s understandable, isn’t it? In certain corners of society, we reflect nature’s ruthlessness too. For example: the military.
The second truth is this: society often values things it shouldn’t, and rewards behaviors that ultimately do harm. We see this in the media and its effects. Some profit from it. That profit allows them to offer rewards to others, and so begins a toxic reward cycle.
This is another way society has diverted the path of nature. In nature, those perceived as threats to the tribe are removed. Now, they’re met with ideation.
So in summary – Nature doesn’t always know what will work. It tries things out. If it didn’t, we wouldn’t have gotten here — we’d just still be here. And perhaps, the reason those of us who are these “Contrasting Colors of Society” are still here… is because we are of value and purpose.
This one’s for all of us who’ve been told we’re different from society, not those who claim to be, but those who simply are. For the ones we sit beside or pass by and without a word, just a glance, we recognize something familiar. A quiet understanding. A shared spark in the contrast. To all my fellow contrasting colors of society – this one’s for you.
If this poem moved you, consider becoming a member to support ToSpeakOnline.com — where we’re committed to delivering thoughtful, good information to the public. Your membership helps fund our contributors and sustain a space where meaningful voices can thrive.
Follow Us On Your Favorite Platform!
