her calm, soothing voice.
my indignant response.

after-dinner drink
B&B;, Benedictine
martinis before
beers with
a habitual personality.

I was running
my system of the poisons.
bourbon by myself
becoming my god

how to reflect better his will...
the nature of temptation
the love of earthly pleasures
the love of god
summon the will

freshness
faded
temptation
drink
intense
my body
craved

I ran harder
longer, my body
screaming

momentum on my side
my convictions took shape
the strength of love, the
power of faith, and the
truth

I am the first son
"...you've arrived,"
he said with a smile
"I can throw it to you..."