I know we all understand pain,

on each level of our lives,

choices made,

outcomes that behave

in a manner of retrospect.

Tonight, there is a horrific sadness

when reflection decides upon

a reality we wish to comprehend.

Confusion speaks out loud,

long after acceptance.

A shadow of our lives will always

stand nearby

waiting with open arms to envelop

our pride, when standing at the gauntlet,

we acknowledge our vulnerability.

~

I want to be strong, I want to remember,

I want to remain open, I want to surrender.

I wish to breathe again.

Please, forgive me as I stand here in pain.

~

Though it is real, one can never imagine the same.