“The Lying Game”

One night, long ago, she left her secret with me
A promise between women to defend a choice
 
No questions asked
No explanations expected
No expectations required
 
One night, long ago, she left her secret with me
A bond between friends to nurture with care
 
No judgement levied
No vow risked
No trust betrayed
 
One night, long ago, she left her secret with me
A link between sisters to honor with respect
 
No exposure feared
No disloyalty dreaded
No love broken
 
One night, long ago, she left her secret with me
A burden dropped into my mind
 
Left under lock and key
Held tightly under my protection
Allowing her to play a lying game
 

David Chapman-artist

Copyright 2024 Elizabeth Abrams Chapman

“Approval"

 

her exclamations of righteousness
fill every hour of every day
as she proclaims her piety
she protects her façade of devotion
with her illusions of perfection
she announces her good deeds
by never saying no
she weaves wreaths of sacrifices
she carries the cross of expectations
over her broken body
her fears wrap around her
 when she judges herself harshly
with condemnation for human failings
she kneels in supplication
asking forgiveness for her sins
 

Coppyright 2024 Elizabeth Abrams Chapman

 

"Chasing the Moon"