I am my brother's keeper
This phrase we've heard before
It means to me that I'm connected
To everyone who does or does not pass through my door
Yes, it is very clear to me
And totally understood
That to my friends and family
Our sense of responsibility is good
But what about the others
Who live and work around me
Do I ignore their pain and sorrow
Because they are not in my "family"?
I'm reminded of another phrase
Popular in my teenage years
We are all a "Family of Man"
All connected by blood and tears
Fighting hunger and poverty
Struggling for clean air and good health
These are woven common threads
In our varied tapestry of wealth
We need to work together
As a nation of people who believe
That responsibility for a better life
Is a goal we can all achieve
For when we help our brothers
Here at home and across the sea
Ultimately what we create
Is a better world for you and me