The Promise

The Promise He wrestles with his demons on the nights that he can't sleep. Like shadows through an open door into his mind they creep. They start out soft and subtle he'll close his eyes to hear. Like echos from his lifetime they whisper in his ear. He's heard it all before he says as he hears it again. Born a natural loser there's no way you'll ever win. He pretends that he can't hear them that his heart is in control. But each time it cuts deeper in the shadows of his soul. So he claims a promise from the good book on his shelf. And swears that he'll help others if he cannot help himself. Some nights it gets so heavy that it knocks him to his knees. If you listen you can hear his cries as they're carried in the breeze. Doing everything he can tracks of tears etched in his face. Trying to change the world while depending on Gods grace. Not knowing what might lie ahead be it happiness or sorrow. Clinging to the promise that he knows Who holds tomorrow. Edwin C Hofert