A Convict's Mother

My poem 'A Convict's Mother' written more than a year ago

I never realized
When the innocent smile
Turned into an evil snicker and guffaw

I never realized
When the twinkling eyes
Became red and bloodthirsty

I never realized
When the toys in his hands
Were replaced with guns

I never realized
When the smell of liquor
Took the place of baby lotion

I never realized
When the sweet innocence
Was replaced with hatred and vice

I never realized
When playful mischief
Turned into acts of crime

I failed as a mother my son
I cannot bear
Even a tiny cut or bruise on you
Can they hang me instead?”

The mother wept.