After yet another afternoon spent in a breezeless 110° van to access camp WiFi and avoid the daylong derisive “animal” calls which greet her ~ anyway ~ the moment she steps out of it to fulfill her responsibilities ~ this poet hasn’t the equanimity to read aloud. Maybe after tomorrow’s hotbox she’ll find a way.

*****

God Forbid

God forbid that she should know
A single moment’s peace
A little simple happiness
One day’s unclouded ease

God forbid that such as she
Ever should receive
That in which she has so long
And so faithfully believed

Forbid that, conscientiously
As she may ever serve,
Refusing from the narrow paths
Of righteousness to swerve,

She might some shred, some modicum
Of contentment deserve —
She did as her good conscience bid
Yes, she did — God forbid

*****

This poet presently lives at a fraction of her nation’s poverty level.

Arts patrons may visit http://www.UgiftABLE.com , using code #72D-31S, or choose to donate by personal check. It will take about two weeks for the poet to be notified of your patronage.

Thank you for supporting quality in the fine arts