New life is so hard to come by,
the old calling too loudly
from past excitements,
from killing kisses,
her forbidden embrace.
My heart races
with just that thought,
so dearly bought
of the fire now turned to ashes.
What will become
of my wife of thirty
standing staunchly by me?
Who will stanch her tears
in the lonely nights?
Two sons go to school
trusting, hoping, awaiting
the day of my return.
Left hanging in the air,
will I turn, when rise
from these ashes; can I
be born again?
first published in BEHIND PRISON WALLS Chapbook
©2011 Bonnie Manion