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?
Copyright © | Year Posted 2021

Poem

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Gelok Avatar
April 1, 2021 at 8:35 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.
Hankins Avatar
April 1, 2021 at 9:29 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.
Wolf Avatar
April 1, 2021 at 7:13 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
Hankins Avatar
April 1, 2021 at 8:06 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.
Krutsinger Avatar
March 31, 2021 at 7:45 PM
The reality of life is right here in this poem my friend.
Hankins Avatar
March 31, 2021 at 8:12 PM
I think so, Caren. It is still heartbreaking...and I haven't the faintest idea what the answers are.
Pettit Avatar
March 31, 2021 at 2:34 PM
A sad reminder about the plight of some children in today's world. It was a good write, nevertheless.
Hankins Avatar
March 31, 2021 at 2:38 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.
Devonshire Avatar
March 31, 2021 at 1:10 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
Hankins Avatar
March 31, 2021 at 2:22 PM
You are so right on that, Carolyn. I'm very, very pro-adoption. Thanks for the read and your insightful comment.
Summers Avatar
March 31, 2021 at 12:32 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
Hankins Avatar
March 31, 2021 at 2:23 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.
Poet Avatar
March 31, 2021 at 11:53 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
Hankins Avatar
March 31, 2021 at 11:55 AM
Just raising some important questions, Lasaad. Thanks for reading and for your insightful comment.
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