Kamila

A girl interrupted

Kamila Valieva, the Russian phenomenon,

came to the Olympics, ready for game on.

The jumps were perfect, her body strong and lean.

Then the shock!

This fabulous talent was not really “clean.”

Just like the East Germany of old,

athletes just have to win gold.

I’m sure the “vitamins” did not make her suspicious.

After all, they helped, and she was ambitious.

When the snake wrapped itself around her feet,

the betrayal was apparent and quite complete.

Her confidence gone,

she struggled on.

Devastated, she looked for a hug

and maybe some guidance,

but her tears were met only

with stony silence.

I hope her future is bright,

that she will put her talent to good use.

Yet her body may never recover

from the years of heavy abuse.

Her soul may suffer even more

from being yesterday’s news.

Only time will tell!

I hope she will be happy and well!