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About This Poem

Measles

Written: 1976
Updated: April 2, 2012

Pink polka-dotted skin stretching body-wide.
Bulges interrupting other-wise peaceful areas.
Spots of lotion and cherry-flavored tongue 
Comforting misery.

Across the room, stacked in safety;
Precious dollies that will be played with another day.
With forever smiles.

One last sniffle for the night.
A hankie is tossed into the glass that serves as a hoop.
Nostrils attempt to function, and a sudden cough 
Shocks the precious dollies. 

Their smiles remain.

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  1. Date: 4/10/2012 3:09:00 PM

    Sad illness..I hope not now..This illness should not happen today..Sara

  1. Date: 4/3/2012 10:54:00 AM

    My son had the Chicken pox and this brought back memories. Well written.

  1. Date: 4/3/2012 8:34:00 AM

    a wonderful reminder of the measles, which were not so wonderful to have. your poem has captured that childhood experience very well, though, and brought me back many years.

  1. Date: 4/2/2012 7:08:00 PM

    I remember the chicken pox being much more uncomfortable. Nice portrait of a young girl, though.

    DeBole Avatar Gail DeBole Date: 4/2/2012 7:52:00 PM Block poet from commenting on your poetry

    Hi Joann - Thanks so much for your comment! Sorry to hear that your suffering was worse. Nowadays, thankfully, the children don't have to suffer if they just get a shot. Medical advancements are so wonderful. - Gail