From the Engulfing Shadows

Real life or imagined

By surprise or anticipated

It digs its claws in deep

Without a single regard

For your waking or your sleep

**

For some, it’s fascinating

Like a dish to truly savor

And others, only dreading

The unknown taking over

**

Together, it can be withstood

Alone, there’s far less likelihood

**

Its visits may be oh so brief

Like the passing morning dew

Or may inspire long-term grief

Like quicksand you can’t get through

**

Unique situations

Yet, similar reactions

Heart hammering

Stomach squeezing

Mind muddling

Reaching for anything

To rescue you

From the engulfing shadows

Of the awaiting abyss

Whose name is

F

E

A

R