With a Word

By Kaitlyn Grissom

A gentle whisper will my downfall bring;

You sealed my condemnation with a breath.

Though you may not have thought of such a thing-

In words of living love, you spoke of death.

I fought so long, I fought so strong and true

To stay upon the straight and narrow path.

Alas that I should find a foe in you,

Whose kindest utt’rance pales the darkest wrath.

They say the pen is mightier than the sword;

The kiss, then, too, is deadlier than the thrust

Of metal into flesh, for with a word

My soul was set ablaze and turned to dust.

Then damn that cursed sentiment abhorred,

That slays a steadfast spirit with a word.