I rise at six; say a prayer, check my phone,
Go to the kitchen for my fifteen minutes alone,
Drink my first cup of coffee and practice my smile
And pray for the strength to act docile.
"In the children's presence at least dear Father."
Spine straight, head up and smile on Heather.

Eight-thirty I walk through office doors head held high.
Smile in place, game face on and fighting the urge to sigh.
Appropriate greetings, smile, smile and wave.
Trisha, Andy, Mike, Samantha and even that creep Dave.
" Just another day, another act for the almighty dollar."
Man does Amy ever breaks her collar.

Five I shut my computer down and grab my pocket book.
Home I go to prepare dinner; good wives always cook.
A smile on my face I greet the kids and listen to their tales.
He got an A and she got homework about blue whales.
"Please make him be late, dear God I will take any excuse today."
His car is driving up I noted with dismay.

Ten the house is quiet finally but i can't mistake that for peace.
That I will get when mine, his or both heartbeat cease.
Matrimonial duties are the worse these days.
I avoid them in some unconventional ways.
"Forgive me Father for I am about to sin."
My headache will hit as soon as he walks in.

Tomorrow is a new start or that is what I was taught.
Will I get a new start out of this web in which I'm caught.
I hope so was my last thought before sleep came.
My last feeling though was on of intense shame.
"Father forgive me for I have sinned once more."
I moaned loud and hard as he opens the door.