deserts

stray dogs, hens, and goats
even geese and pigeons
find protectors,
someone, somewhere.

tender souls still breathe
within society
a trait to be admired,
though sadly mocked
by keyboard warriors.

yet this stream of compassion
loses itself
when it comes to humans,
drying out
in scorched sands
of contempt and hate.

slowly, silently,
stretching their expanse,
within human hearts
spread deserts
endless and bare.