The Sound of Tiny Feet

A deep ache in my belly, echoing through my heart
months turning into years

Older women's words to me when I was young and fertile, half joking, with their bundles of joy already pitter-pattering around their houses.

Their words echoing in my mind, sounding more cruel with each year passing
Passing 30, seeing 35 racing towards me

I crunch the percentages, the likelihood of our hopes being fulfilled.
Test the hormones, check the temperatures, charting like a mad-woman

Slowly becoming more and more sure
Feeling the betrayal of my own body.

My hopes, dreams and motherly identity withering on the altar of reality

If I cannot fulfill this dream of motherhood, of family
that I have clung to since a child

Who am I?






Poetry by SecretWords The PoetBay support member heart!
Read 335 times
star mini Editors' choice
Written on 2021-11-12 at 23:36

Tags Infertility  Purpose  Identity 

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Editorial Team The PoetBay support member heart!
Congratulations! Your poem has been chosen to be featured on our home page by a fellow member of PoetBay. Thank you for posting on our poetry website!
2021-12-02


Alan J Ripley The PoetBay support member heart!
Two adopted children have come into our lives
We and there new parents love them dearly
Shame there mother didn't feel the same
After their dad died. We all deal with grief
Differently. Theirs many more out that deserve homes.
It's another way to complete your family
As for your writing's I like them
2021-11-14


Alan J Ripley The PoetBay support member heart!
Two adopted children have come into our lives
We and there new parents love them dearly
Shame there mother didn't feel the same
After their dad died. We all deal with grief
Differently. Theirs many more out that deserve homes.
It's another way to complete your family
As for your writing's I like them
2021-11-14


Lawrence Beck The PoetBay support member heart!
An aunt, perhaps, an adoptive mother? You will be someone of value, no matter what.
2021-11-13


Griffonner The PoetBay support member heart!
I clearly have great sympathy for your desire, and for your struggle. Who wouldn't have.
We are all unique individuals, with our own desires and wishes. I think we all need - when the situation arises - to take a step back and wonder why our desires and wishes are not being met. None of us know what is around the corner. Have you ever thought that some benevolent entity is saving you from some horrendous experience were you to give birth to children? I do not wish to demean or spoil your obviously fervent dream by saying this. I just firmly believe that there are reasons for everything; even the gift of writing, which you clearly have been granted.
A powerful and emotive piece of writing.

Language: 3
Format: 3
Mood: 5
Overall: 5
2021-11-13