The other side

5 a.m. reminder of genetics failed 

A prayer on my tongue as I apply

Cold pressure on the head

Moist heat on the neck

Stomach a tempest

My mind races, the drumming starts

A steady pounding finally reaches a frenzied pitch

No amount of purging takes it away

This disease that feels worse than death

A pill under the tongue, one on top

Melts and spreads the medicine within

The torturous strains become

Faint drum beats in the distance

Heart's race at an end and, hours later, total rest enjoy

I thank the Lord again for leading me through the pain

to enjoy the other side