What My Mother Has Taught Me: Chapter 1

My mother has told me,
“I'm waiting for the world to devour you,
Then lick its lips,
Savoring your vile taste.
I'm waiting for the world to corrupt your dreams
The way it did mine.”

Her voice is soft in my ear
When she bitterly assures me
That this happiness will not last.

She does not seem to think my optimism
Will help me much.
With a shrug she smirks.
“It's just a matter of time.
I am only waiting
On the inevitable.”

When my mask finally slips
To show the tears I harbor
She chuckles quietly, brings her lips to my ear
“What did I tell you?”
She whispers triumphantly.
“Like mother like daughter.

The world doesn't want you, either.”