C.O. calls out as they approach the door
"Free man walking.”
Other inmates stop, watch, listen.
Something like awe.
They secretly pray he won’t return. He does too.
Gold watch. Goodbye handshakes and thin-lipped smiles.
Final ritual commemorates a generation of fear and stress.
Monday morning he’ll know he’s free.
Back in the parking lot where he can breathe.
Free man walking.
Bruised face. Right arm in a sling – he broke it this time.
Alone. Ecstatic at being alone.
Divorce decree and restraining order clenched tight in her left hand. Precious talismans.
Ever quicker steps -- away from the court house. Free woman walking.
How many times have we gotten free and yet we search to find another problem to engage, sometimes we see the hook before we bite and sometimes we get snagged but would we do this if freedom is really our goal? This is the life of most and you captured it as it is. LJ Hippler.
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Ron
A powerful poem, the end packs a whallop. NO woman should live with abuse. I have and yes, I was also a free woman walking.
Love and blessings,
Linda
Thanks,
Chris