Season 5: Episode 9
But this time
as the vertical line
Divided the horizontal
I let out a loud and expressive breath.
I washed my hands
And the mirror,
as real as Snow White’s
Told me what I needed to do
That I needed to tell my story
That mine would help another
Still, I cried.
I thought my soul would forever be damned
Because that’s what I’d been taught.
Despite my pro affiliation
I just knew I couldn’t
Because if I did
I’d burn for all eternity.
I listened to the mirror
Made an appointment
And swore to them that they’d be back.
Our bond was real.
True to form
I researched
The results of which proved that
Lobbies and interest groups
Were more powerful
More important.
Than a woman and her choice.
The day came
I walked past the protestors
My head held high
Because I knew my rights.
Phase 1:
A pain reliever
This drug I never had
Made me giggle
As those around me
Cried.
Phase 2:
Screenshot
8 weeks
I wasn’t allowed to hear the heartbeat
Not that it would change my mind
But the bond was real.
Phase 3:
Turn the music up
I was asked if I had something to listen to
Being an urbanite, I kept my iPod charged
I sang
To drown out the sound
The machine,
To me, similar to what tests/treats ear infections
What wouldn’t be seen again until
I saw Olivia
Exercising her right.
What was best
Same as I did
I sang.
Then, just like that,
I was told it was over
And I was to go to recovery.
I stayed for the mandatory time.
I just wanted to be home
Under my covers.
It has been 8 years
And there is no regret
Yet this is my first public admission
Because part of me
Despite my conversation that suggested otherwise
Felt that others would think
I’d forever burn.
This person
Whoever they are
Never left me
Forgave me
(if I needed forgiveness)
And I welcome them
But this is MY experience.
Each woman is entitled to her own
Or not
And that’s the point.
It’s hers.
Not yours
Not mine
Not theirs.
Hers.
And that shouldn’t be trifled with.