Though I struggle to believe

I am more than most perceive

In gazing through reflected eyes

In the mirror I self deceive

Is it me that lays me low?

Sabotaged by what I know?

Shackled here I can’t leg go

At war with all the anger flows

Stripped and naked now I go

Toward the light that begs me home

To the shelter of your soul

The only place my love can grow

You take me in such as I am

Lonely, battered and confused

Blind to all that’s circumstance

Forgiving all I’ve failed to do

And in the quiet of your arms

In your shelter safe and warm

I close my eyes and drift to peace

A poet born, warrior deceased

copyright – Michael R. Wood - 2003