A Question Of Family -Values... Poem by RIC BASTASA

the child is confused
for when she tells the truth
about this
family's mess
she is warned
not to expose the
dirty linens
she reasons out
what is wrong with
the truth
is it not that the truth
sets us free
as mother once told
her?
papa says not all
truths must be
preached
family secrets for
instance
what a shame!
but it is a shame
then why did this
family do it?
shut up
the father shouts
at the little girl
and slaps her
small face with
his huge hands

the very reason
why you have seen
this little girl
on the street
crying