What's so Controversial about Non-violence?

The stuff is pain-free,
low cost,
keeps tempers down,
wins friends,
makes wars obsolete,
feels good, and combats aggressive behaviors
among the children.

In fact, the very wise once stood for it,                           

taught it,
lived by it
and tried to change the world.

Their names were quite well-known:
Jesus, Mohandas, Martin, Dag, Dennis, Allen.
We praised them for their greatness and their fame--
but stopped our ears at what they said.

A few still live--the rest
have faded fast away into a memory
that most can scarcely dream--
indeed, will scarcely have the time
after the toys are gathered up,
the video games shut down,
the internet in slumber mode--
and yes, last quarter coming up
for that big football match
upon the giant 60 inch TV
that we added in the den.

Oh yes, that too displays
a bit of violence now and then.
But, what ya gonna do?
We live in the 21st century, now.
      ~