It's Wednesday, and you told me you'd make it.
You've let me down before, but I held on to hope--even if it was only a little bit.
I went through my day excited about this performance:
It was my favorite, 42nd Street. In this one, we would sing and dance!
Mommy and I get ready to go to the school, and you're still not home.
"He might not make it," says Mommy. "Get your coat on so we can go."
As I stood on stage, sang and danced my heart out with my class,
My insides were in knots with hurt and anger, because I knew this time I wasn't going to give you a pass.
Usually, all you would have to do is tell me you're sorry and give me some money,
But this time I was too hurt, too embarrassed, and just plain sad to even be phony.
The performance was over.
While Mommy was driving, I remember that it was dark and cold.
We saw you walking up to the school, but it was over. Mommy said something under her breath that made me wish I was old.
She was as disappointed, and as hurt as me. Her pain was so thick, I was able to feel her energy.
I don't remember you coming home that night. I'm glad, because I'm sure there was a fight. I cried till I closed my eyes and envisioned another life, but when I awoke I realized this was it ... and all I Wanted to do was die.
From My Book,
”The Love You Gave:
The Attention I Craved”
Nahdiyah Dennison
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08682L9R2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_xsmYEbJXRQNQG
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