Once

Once I was someone's daughter
With stars in my eyes and a dream in my heart.
I was full of promise then.

Once I was someone's lover
With a sexy laugh and a knowing glance.
I was full of seductiveness then.

Once I was someone's mother
With a child suckling at my breast
I was full of purpose then.

Now I am none of these things.
Promise squandered,
Seductiveness smothered,
Purpose stolen.
What am I full of, then?

Dani M. Sanders, 2008