Barbara by Audra Haddock Martenot
My Heaven by Lauren McGill
Lauren McGill
My Heaven
It’s midnight, and I fight to stay awake just to watch you sleep
My life is now filled with unbelievable beauty
My life is now filled with you
I must not wake you, but I want to hold you tight in my arms
I am in awe of you
The way your hand rests softly upon your pale cheek
The way your chest rises and falls with each breath you take
You are a miracle
I listen to the melodious sound of your heart beating
Now I can imagine loving someone unconditionally
Now I can imagine a future with you
You are my child, my world, my heaven
Free by Shannon McCullough
Shannon McCullough
Free
Four, it’s easy enough—
Piggybacks and enormous hands
And a mother’s comforting touch.
Outwardly, one could understand.
Fourteen, big hair, and L’Oreal lashes,
Wondering aimlessly around the mall,
Searching for love, but loneliness attaches.
Darkness begins to fall.
Twenty-four, a merry-go-round thrill,
Staring at these tiny faces; they are counting on me to win.
Insecure, relying on my own will,
Hearing the silent screams arise again!
Thirty-four, haunting recollections,
Numb, still, intense dire straits.
Hit my knees! Make a wise decision!
Tangling with hate!
Fresh air, new eyes—forty plus!
Thank you, God, for believing in me!
Walking tall, using your crutch,
You have set me free!