Tell Me What Justice Is

Thomas Hemminger

October 1, 2023

Tell me, Great Thinker, what justice is. 

Tell me what justice is.

Justice is easily known with a glance,

A world where each person is given a chance, 

The space and the grace so that all may advance, 

That is what justice is. 

Tell me, Lone Mother, what justice is.

Tell me what justice is. 

Justice is having a roof and bed,

Knowing my little ones all will be fed, 

Trusting another one at what they said,

That is what justice is. 

Tell me, Dear Orphan, what justice is. 

Tell me what justice is. 

Justice is knowing you always belong,

Having some help when you need to be strong,

Feeling alright when the world feels so wrong,

That is what justice is.

Tell me, Good Neighbor, what justice is.

Tell me what justice is. 

Justice is everyone doing their part,

Treating each other like great works of art,

Loving our neighbors with all of our heart, 

That is what justice is. 

Thomas Hemminger is an elementary music teacher living in Dallas, Texas. His personal hero is Mr. Fred Rogers, the creator of Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood. It was through America’s favorite “neighbor” that Thomas learned of the importance of loving others, and of giving them their own space and grace to grow.