The Client

By Jodie Nicole Hoekman

She sat staring coldly at her case manager, a slight grin across her face, black hair, slick, shiny, plastic.

I watch this woman stoically stare at her inquisitors; Women whom she deems unworthy, unrespectable, other.

Women who have no business in her affairs, and know nothing of her hardships.

I watch this woman, trying to understand her, trying not to judge; while remembering her children’s tears when their mother didn’t show.

I watch this woman, this biological mother, and hope that someday she realizes that there are more important things than herself.

While praying for her children’s happiness.