Like a runner in a relay race
Passing the baton on
Then it comes round again
And I’m not the only one
Feeling the sprint get harder
The distance longer round the track
Some runners stumble and fall
But we don’t have time to look back
More batons now add to the load
It’s hard not to let a few drop
But the pace is relentless
There’s nowhere to stop
The spectators of this sport are watchful
Especially those in the VIP box
Be careful that you never slip up
Or you’ll find yourself pelted with rocks
We each wish it could all be over
We’re thinking enough is enough
But they say the tough get going
When the going gets tough
We want to support each other
As we know what we’re going through
But we barely have time to say ‘thanks’
Or ‘we need and value you’
As more fall by the wayside
We struggle on under the strain
Collecting our burdens like trophies
Ignoring all our own pain
We’re in this because we are selfless
Driven to help those in need
But best not examine too closely
Our faces as there you will read
Behind the smile there’s a sadness
With exhaustion exacting its dues
Because the game never changes
And this was yesterday’s news