Page 22 - Contrast2006

Jessica Fawcett

MERCY

Now I lay me down to sleep

At most times your lips do not move to me
you hold them straight,
as strong as you will
and your eyes are darker still
they remain locked in their place

I beg for your voice, soft
I do not know if you hear me on these days
that I plead

I pray the Lord my soul to keep

Why did you do that
invite me in to where I can feel
that softness in your skin

I'm that little girl, covered in sheets
Strangled by your polite sins

Forgive me Father for I have sinned.

Cross in hand
thin silver chain around the neck

Keep me safe through the night

Side over, knees to chin
wait for madness to surrender
its feverish swell
wait for eyes to remember
to open

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