White Dove
John Vanderslice
I met my new neighbor
Had a drink on her veranda
We watched the ocean
Batter Bonita Point
“Do you have any children?”
The air around us changed
As grief washed across her face
White dove
What are you thinking of?
“We had a daughter
Disappeared at eight
We gave them money
All we could do was wait
She’s found garroted and bound”
White dove
What are you thinking of?
Don’t come around here no more
It’s not about mercy
Not about tears anymore
White dove
What are you thinking of?
Sword of vengeance
Occupies my mind
Who could do such a horrible crime?
Across the qadaas
They’re killing off our side
Walking bombs they don’t
Wear camouflage