Teneu

this is the gospel of a woman suffering.

words that torque

through overuse,

yet pallid lips

can still conjure the shape.

name swallowed by centuries

mother of the unbroken,

home to that most precious pearl.

echoed in your womb,

stagnant waters

coax lotus blossoms

bloom in adversity.

each unwanted daughter

whispers confessions

into the hollow of a bell.

a confluence of rivers

cloisters these eggshell hearts.

this is the gospel of women suffering.