"The Mirage"

a distant shimmering

promising relief

from the desert of my uncertainties

my youth

sought your false oasis

thirsted for love and approval

only to falter

steps leaden by oppression

dropping to my knees

supplicant

to receive one-drop-of-hope

before shunning

Copyright 2019 Elizabeth Abrams Chapman

"Missed Opportunities"

you judged me

never listened to my words

never learned of my dreams

never accepted my strength

you excluded me   

never extended an invitation   

never initiated friendship   

never offered belonging   

you hurt me  

never helped without games   

never explained all the rules   

never proposed compromise   

you hardened me   

never allowed for differences    

never acknowledged my wounds   

never tolerated my spirit  

you lost me   

never experienced my humor    

never encouraged my independence

never received my respect  

Copyright 2011 Elizabeth Abrams Chapman