Hold Back the Tears

when a crippled man refuses
help to climb the stairs
wrestling with
crutches as he proves an ability
to overcome – MS not kind
to his spirit

when your visit to a neighbour’s
child stirs your interest
in a picture drawn by this precious
little soul – cancer
treatments lined up for
too long a period of time

when you sit on the sideline
of life watching the world go by
afraid to join the fray
and commit yourself to completing
your journey --
understanding the obstacles
you must overcome
hills to climb
patience to endure the painful
journey. Yes -- you can survive the
grit blocking your path.

© Richard L. Provencher