I Must

Though I tire, I must be strong,
Because I am in a position to be strong.

Though I tire, I must listen,
Because I am in a position to listen.

Though I tire, I must give counsel,
Because I am in a position to give counsel.

Though I tire, I must mediate,
For I am the only one who can.

So I sacrifice parts of myself,
In order that those around me,
Can have that part,
Hold on to it, and take strength.

I push others out of the quicksand,
Even though the consequence of doing so;
Sinking further,
Weighs upon me.

So I give strength.
I listen.

I give counsel,
I mediate.

I sacrifice myself,
I tire and fall.

I do all of the above,
Because no one else is around who can.


I do it because I can.


And because I can,


Though I tire,


I must.