Lillie in the Reign of Terror
Lillie Maggie Morrell Burkhart, a relative, married Byron Burkhart,β
brother ofβ Ernest Burkhart, who was convicted of killing Osages.
Mine to walk to the cemetery,
bring flowers to my sisters.
Mine to walk through Fairfax ignoring the glances,
whispers. Mine to live alone,
hear the strong wind in the live oaks.
Mine to gauge the green light, off color of tornadoes,
the dark of the storm cellar.
Mine is to dream. Mine to write letters,
visit the prison in El Reno,
hire a maid, a man to cut brush.
Mine to make an arbor, hire the cooks for a feast,
hold a spring dance.
Mine to invite my extended family,
and sit by the fire if no one comes.
Mine to wait until Byron is home, welcome him,
ride around with him. Mine the warmth in my bed.
Mine to hold my head up when I go to town, to live beyond gossip.
Mine to honor the old ways, to preserve the broadcloth,
order new clothes.
Mine to ignore the π»Νπππ°ππ» in my house, the hair oil on the pillow,
Mine is to live in the Osage, remember my relatives
and never show weaknessβ
Mine is to live.
Source: Poetry (June 2025)