She slid the memory of his hatred
into an imaginary place in the shape of a heart
so it could be loved
softly, gently..
she rocked it to sleep
singing
a sweet lullaby
whispering
upon sunrise
"You are cherished"
each afternoon
"You are safe"
upon the stars
"You are special"
her name was, Patience
she knew
there had been a little boy once
deep inside
and, he had suffered.