Me And My Old Pal, Stress

The silent killer in us all

Photo Courtesy of Pexels.com Kaboompics

I lie awake; my thoughts drift to others,

my brain spins like the Hamster’s wheel.

My family’s problems become my own,

I strain to know how they feel.

My needs are stifled, stuffed somewhere inside,

for without me, whom shall reach for their hand.

I ignore my spirit’s warning for soon this will pass,

and only then will I stand.

A friend calls with news of woe,

causing my heart to bleed.

I dig deep, knowing inside,

it is me that she needs.

Come play, a child squeals,

reaching for my hand.

Not now child. I’m much too busy

I hope you understand.

My list grows longer. I need to be stronger,

the days are growing thin.

So much to do, so little time,

where do I begin?

I know I can help; who else can they call,

they need me, can’t you see?

For I am the one, their trusted one.

If it’s not me, who will it be?

You don’t understand,

I have to go.

I made a commitment,

it must be so.

I know someday I’ll have more time,

time — to spend on me.

But until that day, I need my space.

Please, just let me be.

Twenty years have passed; oh my, oh my,

is that really me in the mirror?

I’m never through, so much to do,

the end is growing nearer.

Looking back on things I’ve done,

I let myself go ragged.

Decisions, made in haste, some even jagged.

My strength is gone, I have no more

Put me on a shelf.

I realize now, I should have learned,

to first take care of myself.