she has two children
by two different fathers
you said, as if somehow
that made her less
i traced circles on your chest
wrapped my fingers
in that hair, and pulled
just enough to sting
or draw attention
to my words
that’s what happens
when standards are doubled–
you can walk away
from that other family
no strings
but i have strings, ropes
& lines
i never want to cut
& when we
have a child
that child you say you want
remember
how your lips curled
when you spoke of a woman
just like me
***triggered by this excellent poem: http://journalread.wordpress.com/2012/09/29/a-song-for-two-voices/
Oh-oh … I think I see your muse at work
loving it 
Beautifully personal, Susan. And stingingly felt. An admonition that should indeed be heeded. By more than just one man out there.
Thank you, George. That wonderful poem of Polly’s nudged this one out into daylight.
Spot on!
Thanks, Holly!
Wow wow … so full of magic !!!
Thank you!
Bravo! love how you end this.
Thank you, Doris! Polly’s poem definitely triggered this one. i still remember how much that particular conversation irked me.
I know what you mean I read Polly’s poem
Yes–I would not be surprised if it did not set off more than a few other poems besides this one…
you should, will be in the look out to see more
there is a power to your words always Susan.. and here they are so played out. Ouch
Thanks, Audra. I did tell Thom that, and had that second child…amazing what people will say without realizing what attitudes their words really cover. Glad you liked.
Love it!
Thanks, Julie!
This is well crafted. What you are saying is pointed but it is not condemning. I like how emotionally rich and layered this is. Very nicely done, Susan.
Thanks, Jeremy. Yes, no finger-pointing, and only a few chest hairs were hurt once, to make a point, about seven years ago
Yes. Such judgements make me a bit north of goofy. Well done, you at your best.
Nelle–thanks so much! Have never heard that phrase & I really, really like it! A bit north of goofy…
I tend to use directional remarks.
A bit north of crazy, a bit south of rational, that sort of thing.
Love them all.
Power packed and spot on, Susan. My mother has two of us with different fathers. I read Polly’s poem and I felt like punching someone.
Thanks, Celestine. Ohhhh–I know, Polly’s poem really did it for me…