Throwin Stones

When I was young
not yet on my own
I used to spend time
on shore throwing stones

Searching the edge
For stones that were flat
Smooth to the touch
Fit precise in your hand

I’d gather a bunch
Then find a good place
And I’d throw and I’d throw
Til sweat drip off my face

Counting each skip
Trying for more
Working the angle
Raising the score

Weekends were the best
Spent down by the river
Swimming all day
Til I had blue lips and a shiver

Found me a place
Twas safe from harm
A place for just me
A place that was warm

Sitting on the bridge
Short climb to the top
Although it’s illegal
It’s hidden from the cops

Now I’m not young
But I’m long on my own
I sure miss my time
On shore throwing stones
BjM 2-20-09

The Price of Punishment

I want to write to you
tell you how I feel
but I'm afraid
the words will make it real

I think you will get angry
and then things will get worse
but the silence is deafening
in my private curse

If we are really quiet
and we all pretend
the anger won't go away
the broken hearts won't mend

I am sorry to have hurt you
I am sorry you are down
I'm sorry I can't be more
I'm sorry I make you frown

My heart aches for you
more than my fractures ever did
I ache for what I can't have
I ache for what I did

I'll pay the price of punishment
til I can't pay any more
I ask for your forgiveness
If it is something you can afford
12-01-08 BjM