In recent years a fad has spread and grown,
To boycott Israel, for all that can be known.
However, ignorants don’t seem to realize,
How unwise this choice is for their own lives.

As an example, if you let me, please,
I’ll tell you a sad story of a certain Mr. Smith:
In a hospital room, clinical and bright,
Lay Mr. Smith, ill, tearful, and gripped by fright.

A doctor standing by his bed, in white attire,
With news that made Mr. Smith’s situation dire.
“I’m sorry, sir, your operation’s off,
As Israel, in your boycott, you’ve pledged to scoff.

The tools we use, and drugs we need,
Were all developed in the state of Israel, indeed.”
Voice trembling like dry leaves on autumn trees,
He asked for a cell phone, to tell family of this. 

“Your phone is also Israeli-designed,” came reply;
And in despair, Smith had let out a tearful sigh.

Boycotting has its place,
Yet there’s a price one pays,
That may be realized in
Unexpected, often frightful ways.

Reflect with care on what you choose to ban,
For life’s web is a complex and intertwined span.
Boycott them all you want, but realize, alas:
You may be threatening a hedgehog
With your vulnerable bare ass!

                      Paul Pinkhasik, July 29, 2024

                      illustration from internet