Ugly

The ugliness of my life
springs forth pain;
Pain from neglect,
Pain from wanting and needing.
No love - only commands.

The need for love
springs forth sorrow;
Sorrow from loss,
Sorrow from being alone.
No attention - only abuse.

The longing for attention
springs forth anger;
Anger from the empty silence,
Anger from the cruelty of touch.
No beauty - only ugly.


Ruth Cook

The Touch

DADDY,
I wanted your touch;
You touched me and I cried.
I needed your touch;
You touched me and I died.
I longed for your touch;
Your touch was denied.

MOTHER,
I wanted your loving touch;
You gave me a stare.
I tried to earn your loving touch;
You gave me a dare.
I believed I had your loving touch;
Your loving touch was to beware.

SIBLINGS,
I hated your touch;
You controlled me with touch.
I denied your touch;
You could do so much.
I avoided your touch;
You forced me to do such.

STRANGER,
I feared your touch;
You offered acceptance.
I evaded your touch;
You provided a chance.
I felt your touch;
You gave me confidence.

Ruth Cook