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Pro-Life Dilemma

In a distant land a hungry little girl is crying Tear-stained cheeks, watery eyes Unseeing, the malnourished child dying Her nose clogging up with nasty blow flies Why, in the name of God, was she ever born? In an urban ghetto a young teenager Runs reddened hands over a swollen belly Endures the wrath of her drunken father Spends most of her days in front of a telly What does the future hold for this baby? It is easy to spout off the “pro-life” slogans Or simply quote sacred texts from long ago, But facing the facts in real-life situations How far does concern, or, your money, go?

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Virginia Gelok

Date: 4/1/2021 8:35:00 AM

So many people hide behind blinders and don't acknowledge what is really going on out in the world, our neighborhoods, our back yards. Your poem will surely help open the eyes of so many.

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/1/2021 9:29:00 AM

Thanks, Virginia. I appreciate that you came and read some of my work. Yes, I hoped to draw attention to the very fact you mentioned.

Gershon Wolf

Date: 4/1/2021 7:13:00 AM

Perhaps we can also ask how far the 'concern' of the mother and father of these innocent children goes. What's their answer to their dilemma? Anyone for a little accountability here? ~ Just sayin,' Gershon

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/1/2021 8:06:00 AM

Certainly, this is a valid point, Gershon. Sometimes, OTOH, the father is unknown or in denial. Accountability in today's society seems to have gone by the wayside! Thanks for your read and your comment, as always.

Caren Krutsinger

Date: 3/31/2021 7:45:00 PM

The reality of life is right here in this poem my friend.

L Milton Hankins
Date: 3/31/2021 8:12:00 PM

I think so, Caren. It is still heartbreaking...and I haven't the faintest idea what the answers are.

Robert Pettit

Date: 3/31/2021 2:34:00 PM

A sad reminder about the plight of some children in today's world. It was a good write, nevertheless.

L Milton Hankins
Date: 3/31/2021 2:38:00 PM

This poem was written to call to mind the plight of children born in the most adverse circumstances in the world today. I hope everyone will consider the questions. Thanks for the read, Robert.

Carolyn Devonshire

Date: 3/31/2021 1:10:00 PM

I couldn't have children and know how difficult it is to adopt. If we could only find a way to stop young teens from getting pregnant, we'd be better off. As it stands, I'm "pro adoption." Hugs, Carolyn

L Milton Hankins
Date: 3/31/2021 2:22:00 PM

You are so right on that, Carolyn. I'm very, very pro-adoption. Thanks for the read and your insightful comment.

J. Summers

Date: 3/31/2021 12:32:00 PM

There are many questions on both sides of the issue. The only thing I’m sure about is that it was never the fault of the baby. Meaningful poem we should all devote some time to. John

L Milton Hankins
Date: 3/31/2021 2:23:00 PM

John, you are so right. The poem was meant solely to bring attention to the problem and ask some pertinent questions. I hope everyone who read it will stop and give some time to these questions. Thanks for your read.

Sotto Poet

Date: 3/31/2021 11:53:00 AM

When in urban poverty, a teenager is likely to swell with indignation I think that's a real shame, very deep penned poem Milton, Always wish you happiness //Las

L Milton Hankins
Date: 3/31/2021 11:55:00 AM

Just raising some important questions, Lasaad. Thanks for reading and for your insightful comment.