Think not of life
like a lover
that it should be courted
( look away)
it has no sentiments
is hard at heart
and impervious
to persuading or pleading-

we are alone
all that's before us
is vague and murky
the roads ahead
bear no signs
we struggle by day
stumble by night--

to love is
to share
loads to unburden
but
life is none's partner
though so many
do claim
they have a pact
in secrecy with
this unknown
( self-deception!)

but I've long realised
life's on no one's side
and I wouldn't seek
its favours or blessings
I'm bruised
I suffer
I weep
while life watches
impassionately--

in my vulnerability
even in my desperation
I don't beg or beseech
though I walk barefoot
on its thorns-

pain is endured
through patience
and humility
through which
I'll transcend
all adversity--

I'm just an ordinary being
but will find my salvation
in personal suffering.