Shame talks

by Joel Howard

You think you're loved,

cared for and known?

I feel forgotten,

scared and alone.

You think there's hope,

a future in sight?

I can't remember

a thing I've done right.

You see God in

the beauty of others?

I cannot stand

my sisters and brothers.

You forget sins that

were done unto you?

The failure of others

sticks with me like glue.

You honor God, others

and yourself?

I have put care back

up on the shelf.

When is the last time

I wasn't ashamed?

If there is a problem

I must take the blame.

Not a day goes by

when I don't feel forgotten,

scared and alone,

filthy and rotten.

Year Four