why is there attention given
to stains of the past

is there an answer
that isn’t tightly wrapped
around the finger of another
who has a know-it-all atittude

past pains and wrongs
are insufficient today
if now you are happy
and no longer fighting
for a life of peace

but the person’s name
is still engraved on your arm
stained with blood and cuts
to remind you
of what not to do

so don’t give attention
to that engraving
or you may have to give an answer
without a know-it-all attitude
that you are accustomed to

remember past pains and wrongs
are insufficient today
as long as you are happy
and no longer suffering

right?