I Can't Do This Again Poem by Olorode Olorunleke

I can't do this again
Memories go down the lane
Of our meeting
Looking at the Angel approach in the form of man

Handsome, cool and caring
That no woman in the right sense
Would have denied the right of a husband

Either desperate, naïve or the choice of seeing perfection
Made me keen to the awesome sound of his voice
After all, no woman would pray to lose such a big deal
Awesome memories shared in the journey to the altar
Not knowing a monster in disguise is made my crown

What a choice!
Should this be a manifestation of a prophecy?
Said not to have an elaborate wedding
Or as a result of the hereditary curse

That at every slight opportunity
Jungle justice on a thief is more of my lot
This I saw on the way, but never taken serious
For love covered all things

And the hope of turning a new leaf was assured
Parental advice, stigma of being a divorcee
And my children can't live without their father
Is the essence of my tolerance.

I can't do this again
Hear me well and clear
That your father did this as a sign of love to your mother
Is a lie that you have been told
That could be their sign of love but not mine

I am not a punching bag and slave
I am your wife, help mate, mother and friend
You are to love me
As Christ loves the church
And you'll earn my respect

Hold it!
Anytime you try this, I will get you arrested
Lest you shot me down
Or I do.