Soul survivors in limelight seek

Center–stage with theatrical flair,

Childhood hearts that tremble and quake

At the blood sport exacted with care.

One smiles and laughs in seeming madness

Then shrugs as if nobody cares,

Anger spilt forth in heart–pounding rush

Hunted rabbit into hidden snare.

The other perceived with beauty and strength

Gives her Self up to spiritual growth,

Determined resolve for this sanctified state

Drained away by the need to be loved.

With scarcely a thought to their circular course

Calmly chanting each hardwired verse,

One in vulgarity, brashness and pluck

The other in anguish and curse.

Sadness prevails over secretive hearts

Dark suspicion; pervasive self–doubt,

Fear – the essential hazard of love

Peaceful passage relinquished throughout.