The multitude that is my brother
and the throngs of sisters to me,
the mob of children who laugh, wail and sleep,
each and every person among them,
are worthy of respect and honor and love.
We can tell this by the mark they carry.
The measure of a person is recorded in this label.
It is a logo that reads:
Human being inside,
please treat with decency and kindness.
No matter how poor or sick or disturbed,
This hallmark entitles the bearer
to be treated with humanity and tenderness.
It makes the wearer of this badge my brother,
and the holder of this token my sister.
You carry this mark on you.
It is in the center of your abdomen.
It may be sunk in or protruding out,
It may be covered with hair.
It comes in a variety of colors.
It signals your physical connection
to the entire human species.
If you feel inclined to abuse or abase,
pause to press your finger into your navel
and know that we are all persons worthy of respect.