A Place To Stand

by Justine C. Tajonera

I imagine that this piece of earth
where I have planted my feet
holds me up because
of my will.

I imagine that there
will never be a day
that I can say
someone else
is the root
of all
ills.

I imagine that no one
has any right to my
freedom, my dreams, my
choices.

I imagine that there will
never be
any pity
for me.

I imagine that this world
is falling apart at the seams
because I have not
sewn it properly
together.

I open my eyes,
frightened,
but believing.

(Nov. 13, 2009)