Voices

By Bud Koenemund

The voices are always louder at night;
When I’m alone; vulnerable to their
Influence; criticism which ignites
Self-doubt and –hatred; heightening despair.
Too oft’, these condemnations seem substance:
“You’re not worth affection.” “Who could love a beast?”
“She’s out of your league.” “You have no chance!”
“Why try?” “Just give up, and accept defeat.”
The enemies inside grow insistent –
A treason battering weak defenses –
Overwhelming what little resistance
I can offer to protect my senses.
   How does one combat a mind seditious;
   Obscuring reason with thoughts malicious?

Indomitable

By Bud Koenemund

For Shaindel Beers

I wish to protect thee – in my fashion.

Drop everything, rush there, and shield you

From the world; from doubt; from yourself; dragons

Immortal; fears forever pursuing.

Training dictates action, see? My father;

Gary Cooper; John Wayne; the Infantry;

Always taught to defend the weak – rather

Smothering with attempts at chivalry.

‘Tis ever man’s hubris, I’ve learned: seeking

To support a survivor; these labors

Merely re-arranging deck chairs, sinking

Slowly into comments on the décor

   While you heal; for thou art no damsel

   In distress, but a heart indomitable.