Do you know what it is like

To grow up in a world

where our only planet 

is valued as no more than property?

To read about 13-year-olds like you

Fighting the whole world

it seems

to protect their water?

Do you know what it is like

To grow up in a world 

where the places you love

are disappearing before your eyes?

To hear the orcas’ songs of mourning 

While rain and spray

drench your face 

washing away your angry tears?

Do you know what it is like

To grow up in a world

where your future is being burned to the ground 

by the people supposed to protect you?

To raise your hands high

As we tell the world

that we are worth more 

than an SUV?

Do you know what it is like

To grow up on a planet that you love so much

You’d fight the whole messed-up system for it?

For everyone else?

For you? 

Come with us

As we take up microphones

make signs out of worn-out cardboard boxes

post photos with hashtags

As we climb trees

run through the freezing ocean

reach for the stars