One hot day while out shopping I saw a cattle truck heading for the slaughter house, as it slowed up my eyes and those of its occupants met, being a vegetarian I felt compelled to write this poem.

Born Free

(Dedicated to the memory of Linda McCartney)

                            Have you seen the cattle trucks                          

heading down the road

Did you hear the cries of fear

from its poor pathetic load.

As it swayed from side to side

did you see the pleading eyes

that were peeping through the gaps

 chained together in insufferable heat

Or will you look the other way.. and say,

it’s just another piece of meat.

And as their dragged along the gully

to have that bullet to the head

or a throat cut from side to side

as the drains run bloody red

did you hear their screams of fear and pain?

as their life ebbs slowly down the drain

will you hang your head in shame!

And when you’re having roast beef

for your dinner..  think of me

I'll get my veggie burgers out

Because all animals should live...

Free

ShirleyG   ©