To the woman who threw herself ...

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to the woman who threw herself

and her three children off the 14th story roof

by Halsted

so awful you had to dress the three kids
in the early morning and make the long climb
up the stairs.
the two year old chewing gum
the twins, boy and girl, fighting over the headless

tail-less bear
you in jeans and maroon sweatshirt and slippers
crying, frightened but
determined having prayed to God and hearing him say:
come on up, there is no abusive husband here
there is no mother on crack here
there is a river of milk for the children to drink.

sitters who
will read to the children and teach them joy and

goodness.
A pretty dress and lipstick for you.
God said, do not be afraid; it is easy,

like: close your eyes,

then you will be loved and caressed
all four of you will laugh together
for the first of many times.
God says in a sweet voice, soothing tones
trust me, all the pain will be gone

quickly
and you will dwell in my bosom
in sunshine and warmth.

Read Thomas Hood's,

The Bridge of Sighs

reprinted in this issue, for an intriguing 19th century parallel to Halsted's poem. --jsg