lying on the ground, feeling as though i'm cemented there

listening to the howls of laughter

emanating from gaping mouths,

faces twisted into hideous grimaces



there's no need to berate me,

i already wear a crown of thorns

(i should know, i put it on)

it scratches my forehead to remind me it's there



the blood trickles

into my eyes and blinds me

i'm pulled up by my hair and forced to carry my burden

i will carry it for you as a lesson, even though

it's your burden too.



pick the spot and hang me up -

don't forget the nails!

nine inches of coldness should do just fine.

you seem to feel such glee in leaving me here ...

i cling to my blood-spattered dreams of love and acceptance

because they alone are mine;

bloodied dreams and a quiet dignity.



do to me as you wish,

i'll be reborn.

rebirth into a new consciousness is what i'm offering you,

even though you abuse me.

i forgive you ...

for you know not what you do.