Envy, my loyal friend

Andrew Medhat on Unsplash

At the stroke of midnight, he lingers by

He sings to me lullabies of hate

Another’s salary, success, and joy

He whispers lovingly into my ears

He paints a picture of what I deserve

My mistakes and insecurities

My work, peace, joy, me, myself

Just a toy in the palm of his hand,

Quiver, stretch or curl, I may

His wish is my command

Parties, interviews, home or work,

He attends uninvited

Traveling through time and space

Greets me every morning and night

After inevitable turbulence for a day or two

An overwhelming possession of the mind

I stand defeated, wave goodbye

Preparing his recurrence, yet again.