Liberty

I was a mother once, free in times past, when I first walked this new world. I was worshipped then, my light a path to freedom, my words weapons for sovereignty. I fought in their wars, I nursed foster children, I whispered promises of bliss into their dying ears.

I was revered, before, when I was more, when I was core.

Each day I became less, as gold eclipsed my copper, hatred dimmed my light, and privilege surmounted my birthright.

Crying, I climbed the highest pedestal, I shone over unwilling eyes.

Unnoticed, I became an icon—but a mother no more.