Genetic Baggage

Scientists have knowledge
which they impart
when they exude
or when we ask

Knowledge of what we carry with us
from long distant pasts
What physical
What physiological
What emotional baggage
derived from our ancestors ancient

We know of the reptilian brain stem
the mid-brain mammalian inspired
and then that part most new
the part called cerebrum
A Humankind lately derived part

These three bits
and who knows what else
joined together in processes
both ancient and new
processes making us what we are
and what we will become

Are there portions undiscovered
recesses underused
Are there functions undisclosed
and futures unbelievable

Each of our cells has encoded
silent knowledge revealed in our structures
with information manifest in outward signs
But what information is yet unknown
What abilities
What dreams

Here in genes and cells
a brotherhood of microscopic fellows
designing the human form
the human function
Future Man

Cro-Magnon reading dictionaries
Neanderthals in flight
Gorillas walking the moon

G.J.G. 7/28/89

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