Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: Grrr! (01/28/10)
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TITLE: If Only | Previous Challenge Entry
By K.D. Manes
02/04/10 -
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ADD TO MY FAVORITES
”I’ll be up in a minute!” I already said.
“Daylight’s wasting,” my husband chirps,
Slipping on his jacket, preparing for work.
Grrr…
Turning ‘bout face, he plants a kiss on my cheek.
“Don’t move that bucket, we have another leak.
Oh, and I started a fire; it just needs to be stoked.”
“But, it smokes out the house!” I manage to croak.
Grrr…
“Toilet’s clogged again… sorry - I’ve got to run!
It’s just life, you know? We’ll work past this, Hon.”
Sure, maybe we could barter with Roto-Rooter.
At least we don’t need to worry about looters!
Grrr!
“Hey, mom – do you hear that? It’s our woodpecker.”
When I get a hold of that bird, I swear I’ll deck her!
“Stewart, are you ready?” I yell down the hall.
I seriously doubt it – how that boy does stall!
Grrr!
God, if only I could switch roles with someone just once.
I’ve been stuck in this pit month after month.
Our hideous house could use a face-lift!
If only we had money– I wouldn’t be miffed.
Grrr!
And since we’re on the subject of requests -
Do you think you could unflatten my chest?
If only I had longer legs and a shorter nose.
You didn’t hold back when you made sister, Rose!
Grrr!
God, if only you would answer my prayers –
I’d work hard and play without any cares.
I’d encourage and give; never enrage as provoker.
Why, I’d laugh and joke, much like Al Roker.
Grrr!
Oh, my aching calves - they couldn’t be sorer!
“AAAWWW!” The mirror scoffs at me in horror!
I know, God, I need to change my mournful tune.
But, my puffy eyes... and my big, hair looms!
Grrr!
It’s 7:30AM and I’m running late.
My sink full of dishes will have to wait.
If only my family would clean after themselves -
I would sing, “Halleluiah” with whistles and bells!
Grrr!
Another day, another race –
Find my teacher hat, find my pace
Bills pile high; mortgage is due…
Teachers’ pay – UGH - if people knew!
Grrr!
“Come Stewart, now! We must get out the door!”
YUCK! – My shoes stick to the kitchen floor.
Grrr!
Focus…punch it…MAKE THIS LIGHT!
Oh, that cop never sits on the right!
Grrr!
“Can’t you give a gal a break?”
“If only you did – that was your mistake!”
“But officer, I really didn’t have time.”
Jiminy! He didn’t have to slam me a fine!
Grrr!
Late to school again, my muscles tight.
If looks could kill I’d be imprisoned alright!
Grrr!
Children file in one by one,
Steering clear of smelly Leon.
“Good morning, Ms. Grizwal. Have you been in a fight?”
“You don’t know the half of it,” I mutter, lips pressed tight.
Grrr!
“Okay class, the letter of the day is ‘G.’
How many words can you recite to me?”
Little, Leon raises his hand high.
“Yes, Leon?” I exhale with a sigh.
Ignoring giggles, with his toothless grin -
Returning my gaze - lifting high his chin,
“G-G-God is g-r-r-eat!” He stutters and stammers;
All the while my conscience, God hammers.
“I h-have new p-parents and a new h-home.”
So self-absorbed, I hadn’t known
The state had moved him from place to place -
Though, you’d never know from the glow on his face.
Leon’s eyes reflect his clean slate.
God came near, “Let this be your fate.”
In the still moment my words seem to fumble–
Keenly aware my “Me World” must crumble.
Seizing the next quiet reprieve,
I fall facedown upon my knees.
“Lord, forgive me…I want to see through your lenses…
I’ve been enslaved so long inside wretched fences!”
Drawing me close in his warm embrace.
No scolding now, only merciful grace.
“You’re forgiven, child. I’ve set you free.
Now come along and walk with me.
Give me the load on your shoulders you carry.
My burdens are light – together, let’s tarry.
Don’t let circumstances pull you down.
Keep your eyes on me, I won’t let you drown.
You know, child, all things work together for your good.
Fragrant roses - life wasn’t - when they nailed me to the wood.
In me, you’re a new creation.
Look nigh from your lowly station.
Redeem the time, child, you’re forgiven.
This is your day, child, now start living!"
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Loved the whole piece! Well done.
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