Louise Mathewson

Mom told this story
again and again,
"My mother wanted me
to have an abortion
before you, my first,
were born."

My grandmother
told this story
again and again,
"Your mother was warned
by her doctor
not to have children with your father.
He was crazy,
your dad."

Mom told this story
again and again,
"Your Dad wanted a boy first."

Left unsaid
were her words,
"I was the only one who loved you
enough to want you."