BELIEVE

Whom shall we believe?

Eve

was blamed for the fall

but was it her fault?

Did Adam egg her on

living vicariously

press his desire upon her

until the apple fell

and together they dined?

How many wounds, tears in women’s hearts

lie buried in memories and shame

as they wonder — did I cause my pain?

Centuries as chattel

livestock to quench male desire

demonized blamed for their injuries

scorned as damaged goods.