Just Because It's Hypocrisy Doesn't Mean They're Wrong

"Courage!"

My brother said, when all he meant was that I stop calling so frequently and disturbing his dinner

"Prudence!"

My sister advised, as she stepped off the bus for the last time, waving a final goodbye and vanishing into eternity

"Temperence!"

My cousin warned, as he knocked back another shot, eyes bleary and already liver yellow though he is my same age

"Providence!"

Declared my father, in his billowing caftan, as he ran through the rickety house, laughing at the cobwebs

"Chastity!"

Insisted my mirrored image, as she slowly peeled away my skin, laughing as I blushed and blistered