Mama Said

Experience is a cruel but effective teacher.

Heavy doors clang shut
On my cell, and on my life.
God, what have I done?

Why did I do it?
Anger? Desperation? No.
My friends dared me to.

Couldn't let them down.
Lights! Sirens! The rats jump ship.
Trapped, I stand alone.

"Choose your friends wisely."
Mom's words bounce off concrete walls.
I shake. Choke back sobs.