forgiving

unforgiving me

simmering anger

low, muttering self-talk

or, rather, explanation, justification

pointing out to those who wrong me

that they have hurt, humiliated

without just cause

but i know it is whining

i cannot explain to them

or to anyone else

hence, the fool muttering

until the anger finally subsides

how i wish i could laugh it off

and be done, but i haven’t

the depth of courage or self-awareness

that would allow me to forgive

and forget

forgiven me

hugs from a friend

who blames herself

who has given so much warmth

and welcome that my festering

anger vanishes, leaving me smiling

finally free