I ASK

At a shadowed table 
in the park
I ask migratory birds 
and busied squirrels 
if, for endangered children here and abroad,
my time might be better spent 
making small, bulletproof vests
than writing poems.

Annette Hope Billings is an award-winning poet, actress, and storyteller from Topeka, Kansas. In addition to poetry, prose, and short fiction, she delights in creating stories for and with children. A recipient of an ArtsConnect ARTY Award in Literature, her publications include four collections of poetry. Her most recent book is Just Shy of Stars (Spartan Press). Billings also co-hosts Speak Easy Open Mic, a monthly poetry event now in its eleventh year, in Topeka’s historic NOTO Arts District. For additional information,  please visit her website: anetfullofhope.net