Mizuko jizo

I, Mizuko jizo
With my red, happy face
Am a vassal for your tears
I stand upright with dignity
Bewigged with yarn
Adorned with pearls

Clay last longer than memories

In every tragedy there is a face
You have given me mine
With thumb to earth
You made cheeks for me

These are times . . .
Options no longer glow

There were times . . .
Do you care?

I sailed across bullied seas
A while ago I believed

Dress me as a doll
I no longer breathe

I represent truth
Even if I am only a dead child
Fashioned of clay

Bellerive. Issue 3 (2002). Out of the Void. 60.