I open a chamber of my soul for you,
a chamber desiring no visitation.
Violated, tortured, and gassed were you,
but not forgotten.
You live in the memories
of those who escaped,
who bear the heavy burden
of survival,
who bear testimony
and give you a name, a face.
The prayer chokes upon my clumsy lips:
Forgive me that I could not prevent
what was done to you.
Forgive me that I was not with you
to bear the unbearable.
Forgive me that I was not born
when they declared your life unworthy.
I open a chamber of my soul for you.
Forgive me.