26th December 2023

 

bright moon

waxing gibbous

howling dog

© Rachel Green December 2023

Take a moment from childhood

if you remember that far back

and fins someone who hurt you

physically or emotionally.

I don't mean love interests;

what did I know of love

in the furtive darkness behind the Cricket Pavilion

though perhaps a client or two loved me

and would have taken me home

if not for the wife and kids.

The boy who punched me in the face

was black and blue from his Dad's belt

and thought this was how you proved

your devotion. I forgive you, Peter,

though I pity your kids and grandkids now.

© Rachel Green December 2023