Lisle Ryder Poet Narrative

Is It a Boy Or a Girl

To open a conversation
“Is it a boy or a girl?”
seemed safe.
Safe until the moment
Mum paused before saying;
“We don't know.”
Blank:
I was neutered.
Space opened – if not beneath – 
in silence, mum.
What to say next?
What could be safe?
For her? For the infant?
For me?
I could not walk away.
Our eyes would not meet,
but she occupied the space
with, “I'm sorry.”
“I'm so sorry,” I replied.
What more?
What next?
After a space
of twenty years
What now?
Of your creation, God,
what is natural?
God beyond gender,
we don't know.
“I'm so sorry.”
In the blank – space – mum
you challenge me
beyond what is safe.

Most weeks my routine as Hospital Chaplain took me to the maternity wards. While there was plenty of joy, it was also a minefield of sensitivity. This was a learning experience for heart, soul and intellect.

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Maureen McGreavy Pigeon Tart April 4, 2018 at 9:23 AM A heavy heavy write delivered so lightly. Incredible poem Lisle. Big hugs. mo Maureen McGreavy Pigeon Tart April 4, 2018 at 9:52 AM I have spent some time in hospital, I must commend you, you have a particularly appreciated important job. Lisle Ryder April 4, 2018 at 9:34 AM Thanks Maureen, It was not an occasion to forget. A learning, changing experience.