I feel him stir from within before full sight
Soon to feel his sword and acidic bite
Often disguised, but I know him still
He does not know me or my strong will

Intent to deal the deepest blow
Leaves my brain roiled, this insidious foe
Hiding deep within me, he summons the toll
But the blade too short to attain my soul

His larcenous reaches profound into family time
Of this no doubt, his most vulgar of crimes
Pure time does not make a family bond
Yet love and unyielding support make it respond

An unending search for a combination and fit
Family and friends, paragon tonic for my spirit
From each battle I shall rebound
No other choice, I've looked, none found

I cannot escape from my afflictive bindings
Mired in such plight no matter the findings
No option for me of merely walking away
Noble courage of heroes are with those that can, but stay

© 2006, Bob Wold