A Mathematics of Loss

Mathematics

There is no algebra for death.

No life lost cancels out another.

The idea that there is some other

side to the equation is a lie

perpetrated by centuries of war and revenge.

There is no other side. You cannot subtract

and equalize the equation.

There is an addition of loss,

grief upon grief upon grief.

There is a multiplication of loss,

ripples of sorrow expanding

through families, friends, communities, nations.

Division is a choice.

Division is a choice.

Lynn Ungar  7-8-16