With no escape routes, I stand firm.
I watch as others run away.
My demons try to make me squirm,
But hardship cannot make me fray.

I’ve tasted that which helps you cope:
The bitterness of pain’s distraction.
Many friends of mine seek hope,
Lured by its dark attraction.

This reclusive lonely wretch
Was strengthened by a new resolve.
Now a stronger person
For the problems which I learned to solve.

Those who know the route so well
Would gladly serve you as a guide,
If only you weren’t so afraid
To trust, drop guard, & then confide.

I used to call them battle wounds
& I saw you in a hopeful light.
To be your ally made me proud,
But now you say it’s not my fight.

You shed your light on shadows
Which overcast my darkest dreams
You taught me to release my pain
Through windows holding eager streams.

You broke down my defences
Which I forged when others let me down.
You stormed my kingdom’s every court
& gratefully received the crown.

Now that what we had is gone,
The thespian has left the stage.
But, as a friend, I care about you
& I long to save you from your rage.

Giving you the space you need,
I watch you from afar.
I’m always here for you, dear friend.
I believe that I am you star.

© RDX 2004