A smile, a sigh, a look
Displayed like an open book
A tale that should never end
Goodbye my dear old friend

The story began so well
But then the hero fell
The battle is not yet lost
But how dear was the cost

Others continue the fight
But I see the end in sight
Only one of us passed
Yet all lights are fading fast

When you stumble do you fall
If threatened do you fade to nothing at all
Excess pressures cause collapse
Are you able to keep it all under wraps

Looking back you feel regret
Wishing it wasn’t over yet
Hoping for another chance
Or perhaps just that one last dance

/~~/

When you stumble you just laugh
If threatened you step in on others’ behalf
Excess pressures challenge you
You are full of serenity and virtue

Looking back you feel delight
Wishing for it to remain bright
Hoping that nothing changes
Or looking for more exchanges

Calm, tense, waiting
Not quite hating
Watching others stumble
Trying to be humble

Pressure, atmosphere
Trying to hear
Whispers getting louder
One starting to flounder

Compromise, peace
Conflict will cease
Lines drawn but never crossed
Settled by a riposte