My stresses exist in the nighttime like stars in the sky,
So many and unconsciously I battle them
Never able to win
I am overpowered
I wake up beat and ****** with
Teeth clenched too tight
My jaw aches
And my eyes refuse to open
I'm too tired and too old to fight every night
Yet the bell rings as soon as I fall asleep
How do I prepare for the exact anxieties
My brain sets up for me,
All of them reigning champions
Undefeated
And gloating
I'll never touch the belt
Because even good dreams
Leave me to wake in the real world.
I have to fight the day too.
I can't wait to retire.