Unstain

Unstain As I reach for fresh paper In the hopes to start over I dog-eared that chapter Yellowed in time Seeped in tea Sepia to the tee You stained me Like old photographs From distant memory You can’t stain without sanding I can’t stay withstanding Waiting in line If I don’t stand down You sand me down I’m stripped, then sealed Am I oak or ash Did you even ask? If I want to be finished How many coats will you cover me? Before you could no longer see What I used to be Strip the grain You cannot stain over stain My skin light Rubbed raw But you’re overstaying Your welcome You’re welcome! I've asked you to stop And yet you strip me Of my colors With even strokes You wipe away what’s left You didn’t leave a trace Of the woman that I used to be How many times will you coat me? How many quotes till you let me be.