fear

When I am alone
only I know my own iniquities;
I have many.

The cassette tape from that meeting lies on my desk,
unheard. I was supposed to listen to it
and find his voice and judge him,
but I resisted. What right do I have?
The label is slowly peeling off the original-
it's been 3 years since he spoke into the mic.

Three years ago I was this low,
three years ago I didn't know the brutality
of human nature. Maybe he didn't either.
I won't listen to the tape.

Let me alone for just a while longer
so only the few who know of my iniquities
can laugh at them.