Guilt

That stone sphere sits
stuck in my abdomen 
like the iron balls
of chain gangers 

It consumes me
at night like gangs 
waiting for sunset
so initiation can begin

Silence is accusatory
confirmation of crime
failure to jump the fence 
too afraid of change 

As I lie on this hard bed
the blankets cold as milk
my eyes turn to black 
an empty chalkboard 

Lasting for three days
like a mild punishment 
I'm released, free as atoms 
leaving me with a decision

Is it time for my rebirth
as bright as a firework
or shall I drown in mud
a fallen soldier of hope