Camille sits on a squishy sofa
that sends her lower back
into immediate spasm.
Balks at the word “god,”
refuses to recite the serenity prayer
while holding hands with a stranger.
Swallows a lump in her throat
as another woman describes
her alcoholic husband’s denial.
Recognizes the sad scenario,
downward spiral.
Decides not to share
her emotions of anger, betrayal.
Agrees with the three C’s:
You didn’t create it.
Don’t control it.
Can’t cure it.
Could kick herself in the ass
for not knowing better.
Jennifer Lagier has published nine poetry books and in multiple literary magazines. She taught with California Poets in the Schools and is now a retired college librarian/instructor, member of the Italian American Writers Association, co-edits the Homestead Review, helps coordinate monthly Monterey Bay Poetry Consortium Second Sunday readings. Website: http://jlagier.net
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