“For Momma” by FJ Goodall

for momma's eyes when they made me behave

in a way words never could.  

­for momma's hands that could rub the hurt

from my heart,

for momma's heart, loving me

unconditionally, covering

me in a warm glow that said everything

would be all right even if she did have

to catch the bus in the rain or

couldn't afford to buy me a

car when i turned sixteen.

for momma's dignity

raising me above filthy streets.

teaching me about manhood

with no man around, and respect

for myself

                and life (respect

                for her is implied).­ prison wardens

                don't make gumbo as good as momma's

                and it's always too

                cold at the morgue.­

                momma taught

                me that.

and about God.

her faith inspired me to

seek salvation

but i can't imagine heaven being

much better than falling asleep

with momma stroking my hair.

 

for momma the queen of my heart

apple of my eye, soul to soul we are one.

if i could only be half the man

you made of me.

if i could only love like you love

with all my heart/body/soul.

if i could only touch others

the way you touched me

and appreciate life the way you do

then i could finally make you proud

that i am your son.

 

*          *          *         *         * 

F.J. edits Soul Portrait Magazine

 

 

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