and dare me to deal with what's real.
I am apt to find
in the grocery list,
a scribble in blood,
'Ryan, no love
before next year.'
It's vastly important
to face fear with a clenched fist,
a hidden smile,
and maybe a surprise.
I am back in the world,
where regret kicked my butt,
but I can't wait
on my conscience any longer.
Put old drinking songs
on the juke,
and let's make new memories
to replace the previous.
There is only one thing
in this watery world
I must avoid
this time.
Bring everything else on,
and don't pull any punches, life.