Love Poem: Toll
Jo Bien Avatar
Written by: Jo Bien

Toll

it really wasn't quite fair
the profit that came to you
at the cost of my redemption
the recompense I paid

just like a Midwest highway
the tolls they bleed for use
the value of what is measured
set by others at my expense

you pocket the small stipend
my love, my heart, my soul
moving on to the new quarry 
an unsuspecting host

never looking over your shoulder
there's nothing that holds you back
a conscience not left muddled
your scruples still unimpaired