We all must pay
God’s debt
With a life too frail
For the taking
As threatened by age
Still inherent
Being human and flawed
After sin

Which gambles our soul
Always knowing
Like rolling that dice
Every second
Such breath should dare
Inhalation
In spite of death
Drawing near

These transient games
Often tempt
When promising flesh
Utter happiness
While hiding knives
Behind curtains
Merely stalling fate
Soon attacked

Still stabbing us back
Though we push
Their sharpest blades
Even further
Below this skin
Facing struggles
Regaining holds
Never had

Assuming strength
Couldn’t change
Over feelings lost
Barely grounded
Assured how faith
Remains certain
Staying far from fear
If engaged

Until mortal doubt
Disappears
During moments spent
Truly dreaming
Since force unveils
Better reasons
Epiphanies wait
Beyond rules.

• J. Pigno