never again

THE TOXIC FRIEND

Written By Linda A. Knowles

She brought up past sins,

from those long ago days,

a time from the past;

and I saw her ways.

A friendship so toxic,

and it finally fell apart;

But it felt for me,

a yoke,

that broke;

and no more dart-like words,

to smack me in the face,

for towards the very end,

the friendship was covered with oleander,

concealed by pretty lace.

It took its toll,

discouraging words,

background trolls,

broken promises,

so many no’s.

The spouting of a familiar phrase,

One I would often hear her say,

“I didn’t do anything wrong,”

and fault fell to me,

even when it was hers,

constantly-

always-

apologizing,

endlessly.

Continually,

I was saying,

“I’m sorry for…”

seemingly all the time;

but she claimed no part.

How she got all innocent;

to this day,

I still don’t know;

But,

more and more,

I understand,

as time goes on and on.