Repentance
By: Ashley Haberberger
I have not sat by while famine and drought wreak havoc.
I meet her gaze on the sidewalk.
I have not sent millions to fight in a war they cannot win.
I let a smile creep onto my lips.
I have not let innocent children succumb to cancer.
I feel her fingers intertwined with mine.
I have not let entire cultures perish.
I laugh as she plants a gentle kiss on my cheek.
Hateful jeers escape a stranger’s lips.
I am dirty,
disgusting,
a sinner.
Tell me,
why should I repent to God,
when his sins far outnumber my own?
I meet her gaze on the sidewalk.
I have not sent millions to fight in a war they cannot win.
I let a smile creep onto my lips.
I have not let innocent children succumb to cancer.
I feel her fingers intertwined with mine.
I have not let entire cultures perish.
I laugh as she plants a gentle kiss on my cheek.
Hateful jeers escape a stranger’s lips.
I am dirty,
disgusting,
a sinner.
Tell me,
why should I repent to God,
when his sins far outnumber my own?
Writer's Statement: I've always been moved by personal pieces, and my goal is to create something that stirs up that same feeling in my audience. I hope people who've struggled with religion, their sexuality, relationships, or finding themselves can relate to my work.