Returns

write please read and enjoy

Misery is an arms race in family politics

to gather the most for ammunition 

releasing sweltering hot bursts

that break the skin without contact

for years, without seeing 

Undesirable outcomes include 

solitude, quiet retirement from drama

and fights, no circle; no circle of life

many displeased elders frown 

I carry shunned traditions on my back,

ashes from bridges, and skeletons from closets 

Witnesses are dogged in all manners

warfare wages, all morals weigh in 

over their fare payment, reasons shed disguise

greed, they would weep buckets for the wealthy,

empty to carry whatever of worth they could

shameless, teeth stained with crimes beam light smiles

the wheel returns and a collection plate falls barren at our feet.