I am guilty

of many crimes,

so they say,

but here in my confessional box,

I find the priest in no mood

to absolve me, a listener

of final words and regret,

ask for leniency in this casket,

one size fits all,

I am told my heart is too heavy,

paying a price, guilt paid in advance,

no returns, my remorse and shame

mutually vying to eat my soul.

Ian D. Hall 2017