Velvet Brick

Through storms of anger
My shields remain intact.
Against bigotry and racist slur
I keep myself together.
With fists of fury
I hold my own, if necessary.

Then, like a shop front window –
I shatter, at your gentle farewell.

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I beg your pardon

Once more I found myself

Wedged into a cycle of regret.

The lessons learned from times past

Eluded me in my time of need –

No witty reply,

No clever riposte

Escaped my gaping mouth…

Until I got home with time to stew –

Mentally running scenarios, and

Creating unspoken witticisms.

 

 
One day I’ll be prepared

For the audacity of my fellow man.

Maybe…