Freedom is Slavery

More often than not,
It feels like freedom is a lie we tell ourselves
To convince us that the things we endure
Serve some greater "common good"
Instead of being thrust upon us
By the cruel whims of fate and chance. 

In America especially 
Freedom is a word that barely means anything anymore. 
We know from cliches and platitudes
That it isn't free,
But despite our supposed commitment
To life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness
For all our citizens,
Some of us wind up more free than others. 

Freedom is slavery. 
Slavish devotion to the idea
That some things are worth fighting for;
A willingness to risk our very lives
Fighting for ideals that we may never enjoy. 
Enslavement to corporations 
Who have bought and paid for our leaders
Who sell us out in turn,
Lining the pockets of the wealthy
And keeping power in the hands of the powerful. 

Is freedom just propaganda?
Is it actually available for the likes of you and me?
Who knows for sure;
All we can do is follow with our heads as well as our hearts
And speak up when we see abuse. 
At the very least we'll be standing in the right place
When they bring us our chains. 

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