Compelled to fight *****,
in attempts to stay clean
The shadows conscripted,
clandestine and mean
Surprise as an ally,
you stalk and you spy
To vanquish the monster
—declawed and defied

(Villanova Chapel: December, 2021)

Tears are on my pillow
I am not to be on the willow.
Tears are on my pillow
I am not like the swallow.