My Present To You

I remember the day

you borrowed my pain

“Take it,” I told you

no need to explain

It’s shopworn and battered

each scar duly earned

Its weight a true burden

of prophecy spurned

Then when you’ve finished

the torture complete

Find a new soul

to will it discrete

But no matter what happens

or how much you cry

This loan is forever

—forever goodbye

(Haverford College: January, 2024)