Saint Anthony’s Statue

Morning coffee made using a ritual learned from your father
Washes down the pills you got from your mother
Your daydreams begin as you look through patio glass.

Blossoming trees, sparkling pool water, and well-kept lawns
A setting for the mournful Saint Anthony statue who looks on
As if he could see the happiness of loved ones buried below.

Pardoned and free, snuggled with a robe, and a cat on your lap
You find holy rest in the scriptures of gossip magazines
And in your professional accomplishments, validation.

Convicted, a needle slides into a man’s  arm to drip fire in the veins
The price to pay when seduced by little girl voices and choices
To sacrifice the lives of loved ones for our own happiness.

But only you will be happy, as you now make another sacrifice
Because my everything wasn’t enough to shake your guilt
Drugs settle in. You sleep and the statued saint receives another.