Author: Gary Beck Source: https://www.polseguera.com/writers/writing-335_rulers.html Rulers Gary Beck/Contusions   Rulers   Chiefs once evolved from their ability to provide food, security, earning the clan's gratitude for service to the people.   Tyrants pretended to care until they were strong enough to take more than their fair share, dominating the tribe in an exercise of power.   Dictators told everyone what to do, how to live, controlling the nation with intimidating force, compelling obedience.   Elected leaders promise to solve the people's problems peacefully, efficiently, but somehow things always get worse, the blessing of democracy.   __________ Contusions is an unpublished poetry collection that explores the aches and pains we suffer from the assault of life.