There is still so much evidence of you

The shape of my tears matches yours

The sweeping lines of my neck reaching for what was once a prominent collar bone

I can still smell the sugar-free gum you gave me to keep me thinking of you while I sat waiting in the back of the car for you to finish an errand

The windshield wipers sling me back and forth between car washes and waiting for the rain to let up so we could go inside and eat dinner

Perhaps I hate hunger because it is a steady reminder of your impeccable record of being my protector and maintainer – never did I go hungry

There is evidence yet no more need for verdict

You were convicted and gave me your life

Unashamed of the sacrifices motherhood required of you

Unrelenting in your pursuit of my deliverance – of my freedom