Life has become a collection of used-tos,
the emptiness of the once upon a time
collecting dust on the mantle of my heart.
A friend I used to know, stolen by marriage.
The paths I used to walk, rain or shine or snow.
Community where, for a time, I belonged;
all snatched away by the changing of seasons.
The face I used to know, blinking sullenly
from the dusty mirror. The lines that started
to rest, proof that joy once settled on my face.
In the silence, my heart beats the dirge rhythm.
used-to
used-to
used-to
About the Creator
Chloë J.
Probably not as funny as I think I am
Insta @chloe_j_writes
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Why Black History Matters in America?
The United States of America is celebrating their 250th anniversary in 2026. I'm proud to be an American and as someone who was born here, I wouldn't imagine myself living anywhere else. This is a country where opportunities are possible. Where anyone can be successful in anything they desire to do. Equality, community, and togetherness are the backbones of what America is and should be about. However, we have an administration who wants to erase and disregard those who have made positive, meaningful impacts in our country, specifically Black figures, such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, and Maya Angelou. President Trump and his administration have been constantly complaining and fighting against what they call the "Woke agenda". They use this excuse as a distraction from other issues they refuse to address, such as the high cost of living, climate change, and inflation. That equality is dividing America, when in reality, it's bringing us together. Being woke is not tied to a specific political party. No matter where you stand on the political spectrum, you can still care about other people and their plights. Compassion and empathy for others isn't tied to a political party, either. We were taught as children to treat others the way we want to be treated and not judge others because they're different from us. Caring about others isn't a personal attack on your beliefs. It doesn't make you any less of a person. People who are easily offended over African American figures, past or present, or anything related to it, are grasping at straws. Current and future generations need to know who people like Harriet Tubman and Shirley Chisholm were, especially in the classroom. Black History is part of American History. It should be recognized, not hidden or forgotten. Besides, you can't shield children from everything, just because your feelings are easily hurt.
By Mark Wesley Pritchard 4 days ago in The Swamp


Comments (3)
Gripping poetic thoughts, really sleek use of enjambment too.
We may have used-tos but we also have right now. We can make new memories. ❤️ Love this poem. It’s so real.
The used-to's have become have-to and all the fun has been sucked out of them! Upon finishing your piece my mind was awash with all my used-to's, I'm glad of them and your piece has done it's job! Thank you 😊