Parenthood
Ben Hartman
It looked like me
I looked away
My tears of joy disturb
My tears of disarray
I smile because I have to
Lie because I have to
Say what I’m supposed to say
While my core disintegrates
A pat on my back
Is a shovel on my soil
Pack in the anguish
Awake my broken dreams
A life sentence
Awakens the vegetative state within me
Society says it doesn’t make sense
My vain attempt to hoard its innocence
Ben Hartman is a graduate from Lawrence University (Appleton, WI) who enjoys writing, hiking, kayaking, and just about anything that will result in an enlightening story or experience. Whether it's an unfamiliar hiking trail, the aisles of a library, or the thoughts within your mind, keep exploring!
Keri Olson explores life’s beauty and joy through her award-winning photography, writing and public speaking. Keri draws upon her experiences with cancer and other serious illnesses for inspiration and perspective. She lives in her hometown of Baraboo with her husband, Larry McCoy.