Writing inspired by the following SWC prompt:

Write about trust.

The Game of Trust

by Brigid Whoriskey

A child stands, feet firm on the ground
Shrieks of glee, a joyful sound
Heart jumping
adrenaline pumping
Breath held for the backwards fall
Arms catch, the thrill of it all
In the carefree childhood game of trust

Mum holding the world in her hands
Assured leader of all she commands
Answers ready,
Presence steady
Now I strive to guide, to know
When to hold tight and when to let go
The ease of it all in the family game of trust

In the corporate world, self-interest reigns
Hidden agendas, frequent distain
Ethics code
largely ignored
Hands hidden, my back exposed
Don’t wait to be caught, arms are closed
In the toxic corporate game of Mistrust

World politics is a different game

Leaders posturing, attributing blame

Aid blocked

Guns cocked

Children lost beneath the rubble

Unheard screams in the terror bubble

Compassion drowned in the war game of no trust

And then I witness life’s frailty stage
A mind sharp, body ravaged with age
To feel that need
And then take heed
To listen, to care, to stand beside
The privilege of opening your arms wide
I’ve got you in this mutual game of trust

Consider this code for living your life
For dealing with all its joys and its strife
Open arms
Heal most harms
Open yours wide when you get the call
Seek those who’ll hold you when you fall
And you’ll thrive in life’s game of trust