In the bleak aftermath each morning is a struggle
Stretching into motionless afternoon of leaden despair
Simmering in boa knotted stomach and boiling over
Eyes narrowed by heavy deep-creased brow
Resisting the yearning impulse to burrow under covers
Grave digging designs on hibernating through the teens
Ostrich head sunk deep down unburdens encumbered
Shoulders crushed beneath invisible fear mountain’s swell
Can strength of purpose drenched with decency and love
Shake off the light-threatening sodden blanket dirge,
Soaked with bitter regret held down by daunting waves
Churning disorientating vertigo amid panicked yells?
Wake
Rise
Stretch
Hug
Speak
Scream
Fight
Hope
Love
Cleansing words wage war on fear’s frozen grasp
mannersworld 