Race

"Luck of the draw
to see who starts first."
"He who dies with the most toys wins."
"Only the strong survive."
"Winner takes all."
Bumper sticker thoughts blur
along the highway of my mind.
I think about the game of life.
I see a big circle
with players inside
and spectators outside.
Outsiders bloated bigger than life
full of hotdogs and advice.
Players, more praying than playing
fighting for a better day.
On your mark!
Mark the time for these are
the last days.
Get set!
Set the standard.
Go!
They tell you when to go
but they don't tell you when to stop.
"Win one for the gipper."
"Give it all you've got."
The runners see all God's children
as brothers and sisters
All the spectator can see is
the grand prize and dollar signs.
How long do I have to keep running?
How long do I have to keep fighting?
I am so tired.

1.24.1995