The sad side of town

173.

Growing up, I learned that love

sounds a lot like the slam of the front door;

my mother's eyes rolling and my father's frustration.

Growing up, we watched them kiss once a year

on Valentine's Day, right before they went back

to calling this thing between them "regret."

I am learning from my mother.

I date boys that want the worst from me;

call me bitch like it's my first name.

I'm learning that love is a one-way road,

and when they ask me to jump,

I will always see how high.

Mom, I'm learning.

I know this is really love this time

because I fell just like you.

I'm just like you.