Look at Yourself

I stand before you today as a simple humble man.
Why must you hate me so?
I am not the root of all evil.
I did not kill your children. I have never forced a hand.
Why does your fear still grow?
I am not the enemy of people.

All I ask is for you to listen. Please hear these words of mine.
Then I'll let you decide
If you think I should be damned.
I've had this cross you gave me to bear. From the beginning of your time.
No matter how I've tried.
People never understand.

I live alone.
I cry alone.
My own shoulder catches my tears.
I am misunderstood.
I do have a heart.
That is broken by your fears.

I have but one role to play for you. I am scapegoat to all people.
"Listen to me. I know you know."
"The Devil made me do it."
You take a gun and shoot your wife, then have the gall to call me evil.
They hear your side, then let you go.
Then pray you'll make it through it.

It pains my heart. That I am to blame. For all evil on your earth.
I am simply an honest man.
As I said, a man like you.
I show you options. Let you choose. You must decide their worth.
I let you know where I stand.
And to my word I am always true.

I make a deal.
I keep my word.
That is more than I can say for Man.
Mortal bliss.
All you want.
I offer you all I can.

I have no power over free will of men. I give you what you desire.
I ask politely for your soul.
Then offer you happiness in return.
Your eyes are open when you shake my hand. I do not threaten you with fire.
Your Lord sets you an impossible goal.
And tells you, "Succeed or burn."

You can resist me. It is your right. You can ignore me all you wish.
I do not attempt to sway your faith.
It is your greed that brings you to me.
God created you with your own free will. But tells you on Friday you eat fish.
I do not attempt to control your race.
I will allow you to be free.

Keep me in mind.
Think of my heart.
The next time you berate me.
You may ignore me.
Follow your God.
But you have no right to hate me.