In 89 the heat seemed hotter
here in south Alabama
when waves of rays on asphalt
black created nightmares
on my every day.

my wife and children
in waves of misery drifted away from me.
An unfair judge said since I was hung
they were to be hers.

I stood there with my pants at my ankles
feeling castrated.
I helped create my children. Where was my jury?

Eventually, through honesty, love
perseverance, and continuously holding my tongue,
my children came back, knowing the truth.

I love them.