b'THE REST OF US STORIESInstead you find a jesting onlooker. Dont be soft,Goading the dogs to jump higher, In these turning tidesBark louder, Your tears will freeze over,Run faster, And they will use them as ice picks against you.Play bite,Play fight, I am your father,Keep me awake at night, I made you.Wondering why he didnt help. How little he cared.I used to be scared of dogs. I used to be scared.Not now. Not now.I interlock my fingers in their fur as a reminder. Embrace those you dont know, I ground myself in unwavering comfort. like you have always known them.Where their cells end, mine begin. Grab their hand, hold it there and walk with them.Remind yourself there is beauty in this life.We were once both pawns in a game. This world is gentle, you might not see it now. Both used with as much regard as a match, Smile, even though it hurts.Served a purpose, Kiss them, stroke their face, the tides are turning in After the fire, your favour.Discarded.Make him feel more like a man. They say the pendulum must swing the other way.I used to be scared of dogs. Its your time now.Not now.I notice now how easily fear is imparted,How easily he told me to run,How easily they told you to hide, Maya de FreitasHow easily they tell us beware, BA Drama, Class of 2017Whip us up in a frenzy of fear.Slapstick headlines. Go to the pub now,Have a few beers,Argue with your mates about the immigrants,AlumniArgue with your mates about the family down the street,The woman that lies with another woman,The person who doesnt fit inside the box,The sex worker that is studying for a degree,Argue with your mates about threats they pose.How easily he laughed.Theyre coming here on boats,Theyre stealing our jobs,Dont trust that little boy crying there.The threat of violence is never far away,Dont stray away from the lines.69'