I watch as those around me pick up their weapons and don their battle attire.
This is one of those days when I wonder if the battle will ever end.
But I dare not say that out loud lest it be discovered
that I do not truly despise this assigned enemy.
I may throw blows in the midst of a crowd.
Hurl insults to entertain my compatriots.
But, the truth is, at night, when no one else is there,
When it is just me and my sworn enemy,
I can't really bring myself to hate her that much.
I often find myself wrapping my arms around her,
squeezing her, caressing her.
We share a deep and honest love most days.
Some days, the love is harder to produce.
It's on those days that I believe the captains words
That there are greener pastures on the other side of this war
Better love, greater wealth, bigger opportunities
If only I would endure this pain for a little while longer.
And so everyday I wake up
I watch as those around me pick up their weapons and don their battle attire.
I do so too.
And I go to war with my body.