The Land of Grimney - The Illustrated Adventures of Cora Pearl, aged 12

How dare you claim to be my friend!
Though you'll be there 'til your bitter end
I wish you weren't, and I'm tired of pretending.
I'm sick of saying "it's not her fault" and defending
Your actions, even though I know full well
That you need help. You've made our lives hell!

Take a look around you, take a REALLY good look!
Try to see what you've done! I could write a book!
Those closest to you have suffered most badly
If I could forget you, I'd do it gladly!
But sadly, that's not an option for me.
For my sins, I have too much decency
To tell you exactly how I feel.
The world you THINK you see's not real.

No-one's trying to ruin your life,
You've immersed yourself in strife
And dragged your family in with you
What a selfish thing to do!
But you can't see it, your eyes are blind
Blinded by your damaged mind.
If you could feel the tears I've cried
You'd see just how hard I've tried
To help you, though I know it's in vain
I come back for more, again and again.

The truth is, you will never know
How much I love you, even though
I try and try and try and try.
You just keep taking, bleeding me dry
And all the while giving nothing back
Except for your woes, by the stack.
You've taught me one thing, life's not fair.
Sometimes I wish I didn't care...
But I do. If you were any other,
You'd be on your own. If you weren't my mother...

Thanks, Tanza. I was a ever so slightly apprehensive about posting this one, as it's so personal...can't change my mind now though!

Make sure they're done all the way through! Nothing worse than a bout of food poisoning brought on by undercooked neighours, as I found out with the people that used to live next door...Sam & Ella...*cringe*

Legostan, that is a truly great poem. It rings true for me as having been once a child and as a mother who was determined not to allow the same for her children. It is extraordinary how some people can be just as you describe with absolutely no insight at all.

It is clear that the character of the first person in the poem, which I think you have suggested is you, is remarkable for having the patience and courage to continue to care despite the strife.

Most impressive.

_________________
Nydas
http://www.walkerbroad.co.uk
http://www.thesanitycompany.co.uk/

You're too kind, Nydas! I have to say, learning to deal with a mentally ill parent from an early age, without a father around to boot, was a struggle to say the least. In a strange way, I have a lot to thank her for - it made me into the strong, positive and open-minded person I am today. Which, sadly, has also helped me to deal with the death of my beloved wife (as mentioned in another thread). Now I must draw further upon that strength to be the best father I can to my little girl.

People tell me I've experienced more than someone my age (36) SHOULD have...if only Life™ gave a crap about such meaningless numbers.