Poem: Mirror of the Ancients

The vibrant colors
of a civilization gone by
hidden for centuries
for thousands of years
uncovered by careful hands.
It reveals a way of life
that was only preserved
by the songs and stories
from bards long ago.
The images of
relaxed parties
peaceful home lives
traders on foot
the ordinary day to day
not too different
from the modern.
All of these people
lived
breathed
loved
died
and faced all sorts of
challenges and triumphs
like anyone else.
No one can be certain
what they thought or believed
so why do some today
hold them on a pedestal
and assume their goals
aligned with their own?