White Ribbon

WHEN I wrote 'abracadabra' on your slate with a wet yellow chalk 

You frowned at me.

Then I gave you a White Ribbon -- wrinkled and soiled.

When I wrote ILU on your unruled note book with a blue pencil 

You frowned at me. 

Then I gave you a White Ribbon -- neatly folded, scented. 

On a rainy day 

In a dark dingy room 

When I uncaged a lion in me 

You frowned at me. 

Then I gave you a White Ribbon -- flowing endlessly. 

Now, here I lie, 

Ribs broken, 

Blood strained, 

Gasping for breath, 

Waiting for that freezing touch on my toes, 

I see only White Ribbons. 

Where have you gone ? 

Why don't you frown at me ?