BUTTERFLY IN A CAGE

I put my butterfly in a cage where the catcher won't get her.
He's been chasing her, trying to snag her with his net.
But I protect her and keep her safe and innocent.

She loves to soar over flowers and golden fields...
Spreading her colorful wings to tickle the air around her.
She travels to where the sun shines brightest.

He wants to add her to his ostentatious display.
There he has pinned other exotic creatures through the heart.
He boasts of his skills. He boasts of his eye for beauty.

I watch him try and catch my butterfly with every device.
He lures her in with his sweetness and promises.
He offers a hand while the other hides the dreadful net.

She is not aware and trusts too easily to know this peril.
He didn't know her like I did when she was a caterpillar.
This is her final essence. She's supposed to fly high and free.

I told her to hide in my silver cage, if just for awhile.
Her heart broke as she floated silently through the small gate.
I whispered my own promises and vowed her freedom.

He doesn't see her anymore and wonders where I put her.
I tell him that she wasn't his and that he'll never get her.
He tries to hurt me, but I'm stronger than my butterfly.

He aims his dagger towards my heart and penetrates me.
I look at him through weary eyes and show him my wounds.
I don't bleed anymore because I am only filled with tears.

One day he'll stop hurting me and soon he will disappear.
I will then return to the safe place where I keep my butterfly.
Her sweet release will cure my sadness as she flutters away.


-Marilen J. Sarian