Trauma Shock
Trauma shock. One day after election results.
Does it make me a bad person that I wish some people dead?
Yesterday I couldn’t find the hiding place behind my desk
Or stop crouching. Today I stand up.
America, admit you tattoo yourself racist.
No trustworthy news. Last night NPR said
Trump won because people are tired of inflation.
NPR’s costume narrative won’t hide racism.
America, admit your desire for love and aggression.
Misogyny. My husband wants to move
to Costa Rica. Is there a greener country?
The planet zooms to destruction.
America, lance the boils that blind you.
When the bleeding is over notice a lighter world.
Speak loudly and with courage. Don’t wait for
racism and misogyny to wound you and your loves.
America, admit your bigotry so all may heal.
Kristy Snedden is a trauma psychotherapist. Her poetry has been published nationally and internationally in on-line and print journals and anthologies. She is seeking a publisher for her first collection. She likes hanging out and listening to her husband and their dogs tell tall tales. www.kristysnedden.com
The Marbled Sigh 