Hello world. I was looking through my archive and came across these two poems. One was written by a friend of mine’s girlfriend (so I was told), and the response was written by me because he asked me to. I just thought they would be nice to share, seeing as how most people in a romantic relationship are like this, regardless of if their significant other is imprisoned or not. Also, I love poetic conversation. Here is her statement and my response:

Paranoid
By: Melissa A. Roper

Tell me that this fear is just paranoia in my mind
We’re not straining, we’re not struggling, we’re not sinking, we’re just fine
I’m not perfect my dearest, but damn have I tried
And I’ll try harder, but I know I’ll have the same results every time
Do you want me in all the ways that I am?
With all the struggles and the tears and the clinging to your hand?
I fear you’re getting further and I’m left on the shore to stand
Watching you in the distance with a bullet in my hand
Tell me all this worry is just clutter in my mind
Tell me not to worry, that we’re doing just fine

Paranoid Too
By: Rodney Fenner

Among many others, paranoia is a feeling that we share
That’s why I reach out to you so much, to make sure you’re still there
Because when we’re not in contact, I wonder what you’re doing, who you’re with
In those moments, if you could see my heart, you’d know what it means to be truly missed
No Baby, we’re not struggling and no Beautiful, we’re not sinking
I’m not perfect either, but our souls are perfectly syncing
Yes, I do want you and everything that you bring
Your struggles are my struggles and your pain is my pain
I’d kiss the tears from your face until I can see you smile
And let you cling until our bodies meld and you swell with my child
Don’t ever fear me leaving you to stand alone on the shore
Because if you’re not on the boat, what would I board it for?
People are worried about a lot of things, so it’s natural for you to be
But I assure you, the last thing you’ll ever have to worry about is me
I wouldn’t put you on a pedestal. You deserve a throne my Queen
With my heart as your crown to put your paranoia at ease

Rodney Fenner
DOC #1436377