RULES OF ENGAGEMENT

RULES OF ENGAGEMENT

And so it seems that nothing will truly change

I realize now that the rules to this game are unevenly stacked

My role is to be infinitely kind, and polite, compassionate, and understanding

While others can taunt and tease

Others can jab, stab, and challenge

“Just take it, Carreen.”

I hear their thoughts

I watch that look upon their face

And see the glimmer dance within their eyes

To turn the knife is nothing more than a game

They wish to see just how much pain they can instill

And so they gnash, they bash, and they sting

“How much will she take before she collapses?”

I feel their desire

Yes I have the power, the wisdom, and the ability

To change the rules of engagement

Yes I have the wit and the intelligence to turn the tables

And though I know I can, I never will

I will never be a living, breathing entity who intentionally inflicts pain

“Even if I can. Even if I can”

I see my reflection

Beautiful tragedy, stupidity, or wisdom?

Whatever it be, it is crystal clear to me

The rules of engagement are set before we take our first breath

And we carry them through to the end

So taunt me and haunt me, keep prodding my reserve

You are merely playing your hand

As the tears drip onto my lips

I taste my sadness

Carreen

12/25/16

7:54 a.m.