That being a mother

was too many jobs for one person

That there was no such thing

as true love

That I could hate so deeply

a person I once loved

That praying didn't ensure

my wishes would come true

That I could be so tired

for so long yet continue

to live what's left of my life

That I would lust after men

especially young hard buck men

the older I get

That I would become

sensitive to the approaching grays

That I would need glasses

to read small print up close

That I would tire of partying

and instead opt for a leisurely walk

That I would still be restless at 40 plus

wanting still to explore the world

That I would continue to believe

housework is a waste of time

That I could love three human beings

who sprang from me so fiercely

That I would would still marvel at the beauty

That's nature

That I would still cry

for joy

Opal Palmer Adisa