I wanted
to return to the old ways,
to have the comfort of
what used to be:
instead of the
blinding possibility of
change.

I wanted
to claim glory
for my state!
To raise the Southern flag
with victory and pride
as it once was!

I wanted
to climb into that
prestigious box with regal chairs,
enraged in sly dignity,
feeling the satisfaction
of the cool, metal trigger
fit snuggly within my grip.
I wanted
to see the epiphany
that would reach the
unsuspecting audience;
ensuring all that the South
would no longer play
this insipid game.

I wanted
my name to be remembered forever as
the courageous Southern Hero!

I wanted
many things, and for that,
I was executed.

I found
the core of my troubles,
the source for my glory,
the key to stopping change -
Abraham Lincoln.

And I Shot Him.