Monica,
your defenses are strong

you clutch your adopted daughter
close to your breast
ever mindful of the
wayward tendencies
of  children

Monica, I know
I am under your suspicion
your men have not
been kind
or trustworthy

you bloody my face
and yet I must persevere
dear Monica
I will pay your tariffs
until my means
are exhausted

lay down your arms,
my adversary Monica!
I came to show you strength,
that my heart is pure, I will
lay my armor at your feet

your jewel is under my skin
my ears are parched for
the music of her breath
my eyes for
the tranquility of her gaze

Monica, your gates are strong
you place your foot-soldiers
in tempting positions
they will not dissuade me
they cannot.

I am driven on
by this ancient foolishness

© Tom Watters  4/25/07