Goat gotten, hackles

heightened, but still we attempt 

a polite meek smile 

The good leave too soon

while the bad and ugly stick

around forever 

Skip a rock across 

the water and return to 

childhood innocence 

Our bounds are loosed but

we remain in thrall to old 

man Lucifer's lusts 

Second chances come with strings attached

Lazarus had to

go into hiding after 

Jesus brought him back 

Late summer blues blows

a chill wind across waning 

days of warmth and light 

Straw men twist in the 

wind, smoldering to flame in

the fall (of the world)