For all time,
it was just the way,
things were for me.
It was simply a part of who I was.

Then it grew fingers,
wrestled my ribs,
threatened my lungs.
Still, nothing I couldn't handle.

Thinking it a color,
I imagined deep red,
a visceral ripping ache.
Oops, you saw it on my face.

I am a control freak,
stubborn, foolish,
wholly unwilling to share.
This was my one sight unseen.

But now, everyone
wants to press and hold,
more clearly define it.
Eager, they tell me how it is.

Giving it a name,
mapping its course,
defining treatment.
Pleased, they offer mega feedback.

Walking on coals,
all these years,
it was easier not knowing,
how hot, and how very far the walk.