Always There

I wade through the bog, hip deep stressing life.
Unshed tears too busy to be seen.
Clenching my stomach like a noose daring to hang.
Bother and strife, my head swims with anguish.
And a hand reaches out, a voice grips my ear.
You are there.
Washed away like the tide leaving serenity of life.
You are there.

My body twists and hurts, trembling uncontrollably.
Simple tasks elude my shaking being.
Worthlessness screams obscenities cruelly at me.
Despair dares me to find hope when I'm blind.
Then you hold me, you touch my face.
You are there again.
Bathing me with your compassion, cleansing my wounds.
You are there again.

Terrified of things to come, losing love, falling down.
Walking a tightrope of sanity.
Gathering all my strength just to limp a few more feet.
Not understanding my own decisions, stumbling along.
You pull me close, hold me up.
You are still there.
Getting me past the hard parts, bearing strength enough for us both.
You are still there.

Losing all semblance of adulthood, cowering within my child.
Having no defense against the worst injustices of life.
Groaning sorrowfully beneath lakes of tears.
Feeling like I was never meant to be in the first place.
I am wanted, loved, kissed and hugged.
You are always there.
Reminding me the world is a better place with me in it.
And a wonderful place because you are always there.

Thank you. You have my deepest gratitude and appreciation.