This silent stone weighs heavy in my breast,
For venomous words and vile thoughts infest
Its chambers. Beatings pound erratic, mute,
Lifeless lips upon a reedless flute.
Each slight and slur and every hurt are kept
And groomed and watered with the tears I've wept.
The leaden body drags and penciled lips
Fear veering from our ancient wooden scripts.
With us will happen what I feared the worst,
And then this swollen, suffering heart will burst.
