Before I Board

The year is 2013

I notice that the scene 

is rather different than it seemed

in 1953

Before I board the bus

some recognition is needed

'cause the warnings weren't heeded

in 1955

I'm not required to go

where my feet doesn't feel

and my scars have been healed

since 1964

While the wounds aren't mine

they passed through my blood

like the salt from a waning flood

it stings, at times, today

But before I board this bus,

which has yet to arrive 

I look into some strangers' eyes

I can in 2013