If the Shoe Fits

Republicans fear empathy,
Which means to walk in others’ shoes
And not to offer sympathy—
Compassion for another’s blues.

When Judge Sonia Sotomayor,
The wise Latina, self-described,
Becomes a Justice, they’ll deplore
Her bringing baggage, as they’ve gibed.

Like putting self in parties’ place
Before her when she takes the bench;
Ignoring law that’s based on case
By letting private views entrench.

She says she won’t. But if she tried,
So too did others hint they might.
Old-school Alito testified
Italian legacy sheds light.

And right-wing Clarence Thomas said
That walking where a black man must
Would further let court members tread
On ground that makes the law more just.

Chief Justice Roberts says the court
Must only umpire balls and strikes.
If so, let robots rule the sport,
Without a trace of likes/dislikes.

The ump, however, plays a role,
Without a heart but with a soul.