Fair
of Face
by Susan Herzog
And leaves bloody paw prints
Down the hallways of my house,
Chasing me out to work
With its tiny little rabid claws.
Armed with caffeine, I attempt
To do battle with this overpowering
Yet invisible foe.
I search for reason and apply it to
This offensive.
I dig for patience and use it as arsenal
In this fight.
I place politeness around me like a barricade
To defend me.
And still, despite my fair and fakely smiling
Face;
Monday maims me,
Leaves me weeping on the blood pocked
Floor;
Crying out to be saved
From this neutral, natural enemy of
Grace and dignity.
My small bit of humanity
Lies crushed under Monday’s weight.
Can no one save me?
Can no one hear my screaming pleas?
Now, I am immersed in hot and sudsy water,
Head leaned on the porcelain rim.
I wash away the stains of Monday.
Tomorrow, I will try again.
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