I am quite aware
of the prison I exist in,
and that my surroundings
may look bleak and desperate.
Yet, others may never see
the paradise that the darkness disguises,
as I dine in certainty.
I am touched both by angels and demons,
hearing their whispers and cries.
I suspect they dream of their destiny,
and likely that their past,
no matter how sweet,
are masked as nightmares.
This is the judgement we all bear,
just as we sentence others
so we can tolerate our own guilt and regret.