We Call Them Unclean

stuffed critters line the dashboard
of the V-dub he takes every day
to visit her where she rests
his bent fingers pluck strings
serenade

little princess sightless
except for shadows, sees
the cloudless day and beams
the brightest crooked-smile 
gratitude 

feisty one drives big truck
one leg to pump the pedals
which one, the gas of course!
while she dreams of evenings 
dancing

bike pedals turning, churning
on his daily fitness route 
he ventured out, not accepted
came home to lead
belonging

rubber boots, wide-brimmed hat
hands toil earth creating beauty
short strong arms set nets 
He reaps ocean's bounty through
serenity


*the unmentionable word of all time – leprosy.  The stigma still exists for those who have long been rid of Hansen's Disease.  The only unclean thing is the heart of mankind. 
Dedicated to all those who have honored and touched my heart on Molokaí.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2011

Poem

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Mister Roboto Avatar
November 9, 2011 at 6:46 AM
YOU ARE SOOO ON point with this! ALL my life I have heard ppl making fun of lepers, calling them dirty Job. and Boil Makers foggy eyed frog eyes. I have researched quite a bit on a leper camp overseas and One very great documentary showed some Foster Teens from NYC visiting the Camp! 100% tear jerkingly moving! If I find the name of this film. I will pass it on. Those ppl had NOTHING, and NO family, Yet were so happy and filled with love and humility. A true Joyous and grateful view of life!
Buchel Avatar
November 9, 2011 at 8:17 PM
wow. Thanks for your comments and good to know someone understands how my sweet friends' zest for life affects me and humbles me just to know them. I'd love to take a look at that video if you happen upon it. Thanks again
Williams Avatar
November 7, 2011 at 1:21 AM
Susan many congrats on your win, a very moving poem, thanks for your comments..David
Brown Avatar
September 21, 2011 at 12:43 PM
Congratulations on your win Susan. Love, Carol
Onclaud Avatar
September 18, 2011 at 8:45 AM
i knew this would have a revered place in the contest, susan.. again, cheery congrats on your fine win..:) huggs!
Buchel Avatar
September 18, 2011 at 9:38 AM
thanks, Nette!
Ramsdale Avatar
September 17, 2011 at 3:37 AM
Congratulations on your accomplished place in the contest "unmentionables"...CR
Buchel Avatar
September 17, 2011 at 9:32 AM
thanks for your comment!
The Rogue Rhymer Avatar
September 17, 2011 at 12:30 AM
Tough subject but you did it well-congrats. to you
Buchel Avatar
September 17, 2011 at 9:33 AM
Not too hard to write about when you know these five sweet people! Each with a different gift...
Sweetheart Avatar
September 16, 2011 at 11:50 PM
Congrats Susan on a wonderful win with this fantastic poetry .. very profound piece luv..
Buchel Avatar
September 17, 2011 at 9:34 AM
thank you, Linda-Marie!
Guzzi Avatar
September 16, 2011 at 10:22 PM
One of my favorite books has a leper as a christ figure the Tales of thomas Covenant..by Donaldson I think...it's good more is know of this and more can now be done to help people with this malady, so glad you found time to write this! light & love
Buchel Avatar
September 17, 2011 at 9:35 AM
thanks. I'll try to get a hold of that book! Sue
Brown Avatar
September 14, 2011 at 1:36 PM
I just love reading poetry that shows the release of a poets feelings. I enjoyed reading yours today Susan. Thank you for sharing. Love, Carol
Buchel Avatar
September 14, 2011 at 7:58 PM
How do you EVER find time to give so much encouragement to so many of us? I see your comments EVERYWHERE. Bless you!
Onclaud Avatar
September 14, 2011 at 3:13 AM
this is sucha comapssionate write, susan...a subject rarely discussed these days yet brought to the fore by your wonderful words.. :) huggs, nette
Jones Avatar
September 13, 2011 at 8:55 PM
touching ~N
Buchel Avatar
September 13, 2011 at 10:46 PM
Thanks for reading this, Nancy. By the way, I LOVE your collaboration with John.... BRILLIANT!!!!!
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