The lungs resist oxygen

as the body resists the world

the attempt at life

in an inhospitable climate

inherent strength is gone

a thing of the past

facing system failure

in a half-life twilight

seeking drive

searching for hope

wishing for ground that could steady

but still I resist

acceptance

refusing still another new normal

at war with my body

uncertain of outcomes

knowing only

that I cannot

must not

will not

lose – Caroline A. Slee