Author Information
"Mother, May I?"
by Jeph Johnson
Mother may I offer my sincere apologies?
For I never turned out as the man you really hoped I'd be.
The fault's my own, for blame rests soundly on the foolish choice
To let toxic themes be the inspiration for my voice.
Most find the musings of my mind somewhat embarrassing,
But you enjoy my poetry despite good parenting.
When we played "Mother may I?" you always said I could,
And baby steps, intended to be leaps and bounds, I took.
So happy with the outcome of never falling down,
I remained content with the little happiness I found.
Now I'm very good at nothing that matters much at all
And better yet at some things that foster my downfall.
Your parental guidance taught me the insight
To row against the current, but I sailed to wrong from right.
Tears wept fell in silence until my cries were overheard
You looked my way then smiled for in your eyes they seemed absurd.
The faith you demonstrate still can make me cry;
You encourage and uplift a lonely man with broken pride.
The many gifts I planned to give to you along the way,
Became the accolades you cherish of my younger days,
When a little boy on a carousel going 'round and 'round in the sun
Asked his mommy how and why it worked, but forgot to have some fun.
