I Knew

It’s just you and your kids walking the street

They are laughing and chatting having fun

But there is an itch that you just can’t beat

It’s always there and it just wants to make you run

It’s been a long day out.

You haven’t really enjoyed it

But you haven’t had to shout

They are hungry but hard to afford it

You are so stressed, another thing added to the list.

You want to be there for them, but something is calling you.

You ignore it, and in determination you make a fist

But you’re so thirsty. What do you do?

They look your way asking for something

What do they want again?

Always seeking, asking, wanting things.

It’s your life though, your reign

You snap

You yell wait

Your foot taps

All the weight

They look at you undisturbed

You’re so overwhelmed

It's itching

Calling

You search for the nearest corner of along the sidewalk

You tell them to stay put, high stakes

They must not see you, you’re on the clock

You go through your bag, hand shakes

You find what you’re looking for, a flask

You open it, the smell stings your nose

You take a long drink, you were so thirsty, all day, your life your reign, your mask

Eyes around the corner, peering, they know.