Shame
My face was sweet and calm, not beautiful,
it showed a stamp of pinch and poverty.
I was deceived by love and was with child.
My family and friends were shocked and shamed.
Indignantly, they closed their doors on me.
Left here to fight the world alone, I was.
My sins were like a cloak I had to wear,
the millstone of my shame around my neck.
The bond between body and soul so weak,
knowing they could just get away so quick.
I stretched my arms out to the silent sea,
which knew my tale of sorrow, welcomed me.
It took me then into its gently arms,
and hushed away the pain I felt in me.
Lionel L
(20 Apr 1997)
