The moment
The Three Graces fountain at twilight in Chinon, France.
For the Writers Island prompt, "The Moment," this poem is a sad postscript to Redemption:
In that one moment
you had a chance to admit the truth
and redeem a lifetime of lies;
the chance to lift the burden
of denial and secrecy
that's infused your existence.
Instead, you lost the trust of a son,
smart enough to know
evidence doesn't lie.
When you shave in the morning,
can you avoid your reflection?
Your eyes speak the truth.
Even with age and illness,
wisdom and compassion elude you.
No regret for the unconscionable;
no attempt to seek redemption.
Instead, a searing reminder
of your weakness.
Lacking courage or character,
you refuse to accept responsibility
for your actions.
Run and hide, if you like:
wherever you go,
the truth will follow.
