Just look at all the pretty children
they are combed and dressed so nice
but you didn’t give the youngest a bath
and you let that go last week, and twice
you raised your voice and yelled at them
over a handstand and a make shift band
but yesterday you let one get away
without even a comment or a reprimand.
You fed the little children their pieces of fruit
what a healthy, delicious snack
but last week you took them for ice cream
and you know on Friday you’re going right back.
You’ve babied them and smothered them
and they’ll never stand on their own
you weren’t nurturing enough, too selfish
to play and dance and tell them they shone.
You’re a bad example for staying at home
you’re a horrible mother for working each day
go ahead, toss a coin, roll the dice because
no matter the outcome you’ve lost anyway.
Oh, you’re doomed if you do and you’re
doomed if you don’t and you’ll never get it right
because a mother has guilt that’s at war
with her mind and you will never win this fight.
But don’t let those doubts eat away at your heart
all you can do is your very best
if you make sure they know that you love them
don’t worry about the rest.

Copyright © 2025 Lisa Paul