I gaze longingly
At the familiar playground
I used to inhabit daily
As a small, insecure, child.

I want to swing to the stars,
Then at the highest arch
Jump & repeat for eternity,
Just for the thrills,
excitement, & pleasure
The act would bring me!

However, I would be
committing
A felonious undertaking;
Because only children
Are allowed inside . . .
I no longer qualify!

Although my childhood
Was practically stolen away,
From the sins committed
By countless others,
I feel I am the one paying
the ultimate price. . . .

I crash to the tarmac
In maximum betrayal,
Desiring only a fresh start;
Plus a conduit back into
my mom's womb . . .
The only place I ever
felt safe,
Loved . . . & at peace.

Thinking I heard someone
calling me
Through the trees,
I run distantly far away
Into the inky, malevolent,
darkness,
Praying it will cover over
My many,...