To be True

(To Kill a Mockingbird)

The perspective of Atticus Finch- a father.

I don’t have riches, land, or gold,
Just steady hands and stories told.
A name passed down, a house of books,
And children with their mother’s looks.

They watch me close, my Scout, my Jem,
The world is harsh- I shield from them.
But I can’t lie or make it sweet,
Not when truth walks down our street.

I told them truth, not tales in rhyme,
That justice limps in our own time.
That courage isn’t fists or fight-
It’s standing still and choosing right.

They ask me why I took the case,
Why I stood still, and held my place.
Because a man must choose to see
The right thing through, not just the easy.

Tom was good. Tom had no chance.
The jury gave him not a glance.
I spoke the truth. It wasn’t heard-
But I gave him every word.

The court was quiet. Eyes were wide.
I knew the cost. I stood with pride.
Not to win, but just to show
That right is right, though winds may blow.

The town may spit, and call me names,
Say I brought shame or lit old flames.
But if my children see me bend,
They’ll learn to fold instead of stand.

So, I’ll go on, with quiet tread,
Tuck them gently into bed,
And stroke the thoughts inside her head.

The world is cruel, but I remain
A shelter in the pouring rain.
I cannot change what people do-
But I can teach them to be true.

Let them say I walked with grace,
That I met hatred face to face.
I hope they grow up with hearts held high,
With steady hands and honest eyes.