The Unseen Conflict

The conflict that I’ll never let you see
Is one that rages here inside of me
I face the day and smile away the pain
Yet deep inside these doubts drive me insane

I strive to show a strength I know I lack
For none must know my soul’s under attack
The monster is within and not without
To end my life is what he’s all about

My failures he recounts with vicious glee
To prove that there is nothing good in me
I shiver when I hear his venomed hiss
That tells me I’ll not taste of heaven’s bliss

He flays my sense of worth; I’m left to bleed
I writhe in anguish, longing to be freed
Each day, a battle’s fought inside my mind
I wonder if the road to peace I'll find 

And so I fight these waves to reach the shore
Where tempests of my fear will scream no more
And yet my soul is sinking in despair
If God exists, I wonder, does He care?

A prayer bursts from my lips, a desperate plea
“Oh God, you know this storm inside of me
Reach out your hand and pull me from this wave
Please intervene and save me from the grave!”

A sweet and gentle calmness fills my soul
As I let go and give Him full control
I feel my soul revive and conflict cease
For in my heart now reigns the Prince of Peace.

Eileen Ghali
Copyright © | Year Posted 2018

Poem

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Situation Avatar
September 12, 2023 at 7:40 PM
It is a prayer. A good one I hope my latest coresponds with it.
Lamoureux Avatar
July 16, 2018 at 9:04 AM
Poignant words and a great finish to the piece.
Callus Avatar
April 30, 2018 at 7:55 AM
A very heartfelt emotional poem which speaks with sincerity about problems that many have to cope with, though with varying intensity and results. Admitting to our weak points is the right way forward. The positive ending is a show of strength which only faith can deliver. ~ Lovely to have you back from your travels:) Hugs // paul
Salehi Avatar
April 19, 2018 at 11:27 AM
My Dear Eileen, the cold darkness in your poem remains, unseen, uncertain and unsure, but the hope is always there...Loved it..
Fraser Avatar
April 17, 2018 at 12:02 AM
Wow Eileen you took me to every place ive been in my mind when the enemy comes. Crying out to God is all we can do and hope somewhere in the midst of despair the comfortor will come. Great write my friend. Blessings Carl
Goff Avatar
April 16, 2018 at 10:23 AM
Hi Eileen, an eternal struggle it seems, giving in to God's Will can bring relief, often during the day I recite to myself Charles de Foucauld's "Prayer of Abandonment" I found this prayer card among my Dad's belongings after he had passed, wish I could have talked to him about it
Thomas Avatar
April 16, 2018 at 9:09 AM
Eileen Manassian Ghali your words will reach the very core of many. It will make them crash out of disbelief that someone understands so thoroughly what they are fighting: and it will raise them up because of the amazing ending you've left them with. Stay strong knowing that even from across the world you're not alone.
Lamoureux Avatar
April 18, 2018 at 8:11 AM
What a great comment Flo, you speak the truth.
Lamoureux Avatar
April 16, 2018 at 8:36 AM
An honest and impactful piece with a dash of hope to hang onto. Depression is a subject that many people suffer with in silence. Hugs Rick.
Lamoureux Avatar
April 16, 2018 at 8:37 AM
I wrote a piece titled Easter that I think you would appreciate.
Andresen Avatar
April 16, 2018 at 4:59 AM
- "Wave surfing" ... is very inhibitory and quality of life deteriorates when the soul is sad, dear Eileen - A deep and meaningful poem - Best wishes and hugs // Anne-Lise :)
Knight Avatar
April 15, 2018 at 9:19 PM
Eileen, the power we give into evil, may be his alone. Though these words have great rhythm as seen through your beautiful heart.
Manassian Avatar
April 16, 2018 at 3:20 AM
Thank you, Evelyn. The university I work for hosted a writing contest recently, and I wanted to write about inner conflict. As a judge, I wanted to showcase something in the poetry domain. We had some great entries. I have found, however, that often people will be judgmental or apathetic at best, of the struggles we go through. Hoping to find happiness in a fellow human being is a futile attempt. I'm glad you enjoyed this write. Blessings, dear.
Bauer Avatar
April 15, 2018 at 5:39 PM
i'm glad you've found what you need to help you cope, eileen. your anguish comes through loud and clear in your poem. maybe the knowlege of how much your poems are appreciated can help even a little bit to let you know how special you are...
Manassian Avatar
April 16, 2018 at 3:22 AM
Thank you, dear. I wrote this to be read at an awards ceremony we had for the winners of the poetry and prose competition we recently held at the university. I'm glad you liked it. I do go through my fair share of struggles. If given a chance, God can bring a peaces that passes all understanding. Thanks for the visit, dear.
Duet Avatar
April 15, 2018 at 3:10 PM
A wonderful poem, Eileen. We have all fallen short in our life but God knows life is difficult and He always forgives the contrite heart.
Michael Avatar
April 15, 2018 at 2:50 PM
Wonderful in every way...A beautiful poem, well written too...All the best Eileen
Manassian Avatar
April 16, 2018 at 3:24 AM
Thank you, Arturo. I appreciate the visit and the comment. Blessings.
Allison Avatar
April 15, 2018 at 12:54 PM
I guess we all have inner demons intent on bringing us down, but we must remain strong and ride out the bad times of the insecurities within us. Love the uplifting ending Eileen:-) hugs jan xx
Manassian Avatar
April 16, 2018 at 3:26 AM
It's easier at times than at others. I've been struggling a bit lately. My husband is in the US on business and it's an extended trip. Being alone for a month isn't easy for me, so I'm going to travel to Cyprus tomorrow to be with my dad and step-mom. Fortunately, a day of classes has been canceled so I can have a few days of reprieve from the loneliness. Hugs, sweetie.
Gauthier Avatar
April 15, 2018 at 11:39 AM
Dear Eileen, what an awesome poem. Heartfelt strength goes out to you. Line xx
Manassian Avatar
April 16, 2018 at 3:26 AM
Thank you, Line. It is received with appreciation. Blessings.
Blanca Avatar
April 15, 2018 at 11:14 AM
Eileen, the power we give to evil, is the only power evil has. Liked the rhythm of your prose.
Manassian Avatar
April 15, 2018 at 11:24 AM
Thank you for the reminder. It is true. I appreciate the visit to my poem. Blessings.
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