waking up slowly
hoping upon hope
praying
that the need isn't there
but opening your eyes
you realize it is
and for a split second you are disheartened...
...until you reach for the bottle
        and take a long swig
feeling the warmth encircle you
as excitedly as a lovers embrace
soaking your soul
and feeding your blood
with an intensity that is comparable to
   nothing
you are spellbound
   vulnerable
you feel an imagined strength
the power to do all
   be all
     see all
overcoming everything
   and anything
you are spellbound
blinded by a false sureness
thinking you are strong
not realizing how weak you really are
what a slave you've become
for that bottle has become your lifeline
a temporary paramedic
that keeps you afloat
not knowing that without it
you will no longer
be.