The Lie

Settled in a new life

With every advantage

Fulfilling career

Successful marriage

Respected, admired

Woman of distinction

Good sized home

In a desirable location

Left the past behind

A long time ago

Expert at ignoring

Its plaintive echo

Poverty, misery

Of that stagnant street

Cloying atmosphere

Stench of defeat

Saw a chance to escape

Did not hesitate

Refused to look back

Rarely self castigates

Unless reminded

Of her son's trusting smile

Belief in her lie

She would return in a while

By Margaret Karim

From: United Kingdom