Crucible

by Sam M. Phillips

How are we meant to cope with this disease?

With the unease caused

By these open sores?

.

Laws of nature

Make me unsure

Of a benign existence.

.

My resistance to pain

Has let me down again,

Who can take the strain?

.

How are we meant to refrain

From wanting to complain?

.

All affliction the same,

A test in this game.

.

Lame foot aches,

Takes away peace of mind

So that we’re able to find

Something higher

In the crucible of fire.

.

But I desire

To be free of it,

Why should I sit

And suffer so much?

***

My debut short story collection is here!

INFINITY AND I: Seventy Science Fiction Short Stories

Get a copy here: INFINITY AND I: Seventy Science Fiction Short Stories