If Only You Had Loved Me For a Day

I look into the mirror and falter, Staring back at me is a stranger Wallowing in pity and self rebuke. Another victim pierced by love's hook. Being stripped bare and exposed Like a waste paper to be disposed. I try to speak but shudder and wince For what emanates doesn't myself convince That is the voice of the person I hold. Hollow sound like that of the men of old, Is what splutters out sheepishly As my reflection at me stares, foolishly. I try to grap my teacup but withdraw For the hands panicking remains me of a folklore, Of which I am the Antagonist, Begging for mercy at the feet of the sadist, Who in his strength and might Laughed at me with malicious delight. With such panicky hands, the rope I knotted. With an outstretched leg, the stool I righted My dreams, fading....... My vision, fading....... Time, drifting away..... My senses, shying away..... If only you had loved me for a day. If......... © Temajung Michael T. Buea, 03/03/2021