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!