Release

 

Shrieking wind fills my ears,

Frigid rain pounds my body —

I hear nothing, I feel nothing.

 

Angry waves eagerly seek to devour me

As they build and converge, one upon another —

but hold back, as if to taunt me.

 

In anticipation, blue-white lightning

And exploding thunder

mock me with a celebratory dance,

 

For they know my heart has failed me:

I have not strength enough to endure further.

I am forced to acknowledge defeat.

 

Blackness is to be my shroud and oblivion my companion:

Battle-worn, I stare longingly into the abyss laid before me

… and am comforted.

 

William Mason

March 19, 2007