February 2018
I am a retired math/computer science teacher who now runs a martial arts school for a living. I am a nomad at heart and have lived in places as varied as Texas and Germany, finally settling into retirement in Greeneville, TN. I take writing poetry as seriously as karate training and try to do it just as regularly. My poems have been published in several journals, two anthologies and have received honorable mention in two national competitions: Writers' Digest Annual Writing Competition and the Split This Rock Poetry Festival Competition.
Young Adults
Next week is Carlita’s 15th birthday.
Failed twice, two years too old for 7th grade.
She strokes her rounded belly. Every day
gently circles her hand this way, that way.
Her shirts hang loose, hide what her hand betrayed.
next week is Carlita’s 15th birthday.
she looks a bit bigger. I’d have to say
about three months gone. Can’t ask, can’t invade.
She strokes her rounded belly. Every day
her eyes flash as I look, holds me at bay,
she hides inside adulthood masquerade.
Next week is Carlita’s 15th birthday.
no Quinceaños, sweet fifteen soiree,
or even baby shower, I’m afraid.
She strokes her rounded belly. Every day
closer, baby due on an August day,
just before she is due to start 8th grade.
Next week is Carlita’s 15th birthday.
She strokes her rounded belly every day.
© 2018 Victoria Rivas
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