A Maiden's Woe

A Maiden’s Woe He promised to return After fighting’s done, Said they would wed After the war is won. Fighting ceased, no battles lost No battles either won, Days passed to months Soon into years life had run. My friends all have their tots Running around at home, Breaking pans and pots While I stand all alone. My father died in battle Mother in a raid, Brother was abducted Sister abroad on trade. I, left alone in my teens Now twenty-seven, Slowly losing my beans. They say he’s still alive Consoling me the while, Where and how I wonder While my friends all thrive. Will no one tell me the truth Of his status and being For whom, hope is living? Time has passed on by Age has worn me down, Worry creased my beauty Laughter replaced by frown. Now I live in fear Teaching in a mosque, Fearing sound of bomb shell Turning my country to hell. This is really cruel Keeping someone in the dark, Can’t someone tell her The naked truth so stark?