On Days Like This

On days like this when I have tried
so very hard, not moaned or cried
and not allowed my trials to touch
another life - well not too much
made light of vigilance required
and walked away to rest when tired
in order that my struggle should
be mine alone for other's good.

On days like this when I've survived
risen above all that's contrived
to knock me, leave me less than whole
and still achieved a little goal
and managed still to care about
another's need, a silent shout
and made it home, pleased to surmount
struggles too numerous to count.

On days like this, on days like this
Oh world be kind and please regard
the choices I've been forced to make
have oft times been extremely hard
and may not be my first or best
most aimed for plan, most dreamt of scheme
For life throws challenges our way
Not everything is as it seems.

Karen Holmes
October 23rd 2014