purgatory

striving to meet the moment,

every aspect of physical existence

is torment..

reaching out to engage with the

pain that racks my body,

stinging fingers and toes,

rapid heartbeat - aching joints,

monstrous migraine - fevered thoughts

vile taste permeates inner core..

night time falls -

the darkness - each night lasts a lifetime:

tossing and turning,

striving to open to the message,

what is this?

day comes - light assumes

temporary relief..

I stride out through plaited countryside,

attempting to break through the barriers

of bodily incarceration..

I glean some measure of hope from

verdant foliage and glistening sunshine,

altho' still distant, in truth,

from touching what is real out there..

I reach vainly for that refuge of hope

within the outer limits of my patience

and understanding..

I pray that this episode will come

to a fortuitous close -

I regret my selfish indulgence,

yet strive relentlessly

to accept my bitter reality..

I vow to trust in the faith

that assures me redemption is at hand

yet struggle with this,

verily, struggle with this truth..

with bows