"Ulterior Motives"

Doubt fills my heart when I hear your words—

excuses offered upon the alter

I no longer believe

Cynicism flows within my bloodstream

my hair prickles on the back of my neck—

warning, warning, warning, warning

Caution

Take care

You promise paradise and salvation—

redemption and forgiveness

for my trespasses

as you sin again and again

Proffering your version of God—

distorted through your visions

You raise your voice in righteousness—

indignant with my humanism

you pray for my soul

You—so callous and uncaring

of all suffering

but your own

Copyright 2011 Elizabeth Abrams Chapman

"Sterling Sliver"

 

Part of a set brought out for special occasions

showing guests wholeness and belonging—

            matching, complementary, complete

            “All for one, and one for all!”

The family motto reiterated in ritualistic chant

Part of a set displayed on holidays

buffed with care into sparkle and gleam

            hiding flaws and secrets

            under layers of protective polish

Impressing outsiders and onlookers

Part of a set exhibited for ceremony

identical in rigid expectations

            proof of continuity and unity

            loaded with traditional roles

Indistinguishable utensils of the matriarch

Copyright 2011 Elizabeth Abrams Chapman