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At 60

*

Every morning, for 42 years,

his coffee waits, steaming.

Every night, dinner, hot,

waiting on dining room table.

Every bedtime, she lies,

motionless, while above her

he thrusts and grunts.

*

42 years ago, her mother

was a living icon to how it’s done

Hours before the vows, she

gave her the advice:

Coffee every morning, ready.

Dinner every evening, hot.

Never say no to wifely duty.

*

55 years ago, she watched mom

and grandma serve their men.

Nights came and she served her father.

*

Now, her friends tell her she’s old-fashioned.

They tell her it’s a new day,

Time to serve herself, not men.

She smiles and nods.

 

Word of the Day Challenge — duress