Fear

I must say a word about fear. It is life’s only true opponent.

Yann Martel

I was anxious for so long, thinking I
must please you, all of you
say kind words and always take care
A stranger in my own life, what good
word did I offer my own tender self
about the present or longed-for future?
Fear, I knew too well, clinging to
it, wrapping it around, but it
is a fickle friend, I know now
Life's less certain than I wish it
Only looking back can I know
true from false.  But it is no
opponent.  I am welcome here.