Jerry Hoffman - Dependence

Dismal dawn of inner city
Filters through the curtains' tears
Cardboard windowpanes creating
Patchwork quilt of dusty squares

On the bed, a moan is uttered
As it's owner turns to see
Who has spent the night beside her
Purchased love, lost dignity

Silently her partner rises
Without glancing at her face
Conscience seared beyond all feeling
He paid well for her disgrace

Hardened lines on granite forehead
Mask the teardrops in her eyes
Strength's last hope is seen as weakness
Still, her inner spirit cries

Reaching out, she grasps the bottle
Seeks the needle's numbing kiss
Finally one she can depend on
Pain gives way to temporal bliss

Many folks like her are crying,
For a light to show the way.
Give them Jesus, for He only,
Turns the darkened night to day.

Jerry Hoffman

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/dependence-3/