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I can’t bear that house a moment longer.

The others can stay if they wish,

say what they want.

They claim to love me; they know me not.

Must I bear this weight alone? So be it.

Lord, forgive my wicked thoughts.

I wish no one any harm. If some must wither

so I may flourish, then, so be it.

No crown, you say?

I will have my life.

Notes:

This poem is from “The Witness Stones Project” portfolio that appeared in the November 2021 issue. The authors write about the series and the collaborative process here.

Source: Poetry (November 2021)