Wasps Redux (A Karmic Lament)

By Clara Blair

What do we say now, with
Guilt where the nest used to be?
Self-defense? Yes, I guess.
But it still doesn't feel that way.

Safety. Danger. Allergic reactions.
All valid reasons for killing the wasps.
Still the thought stings and buzzes -
What else was destroyed today?

Death of innocence, of principle or
Pride, leaves a stain on the soul toxic
Beyond logic. The lesser of two evils
Will nonetheless the heart betray.

© 2002 Clara Blair