the devil is busy today, as always, though

today is rather special. it’s his birthday!

and he has gotten a pretty mink coat

and you’re his special date. but don’t be

alarmed now, the devil is just a label, a myth,

something to frighten silly kids, you know better

there, no need to scratch your head, he has taken you

by the arms, singing a lovely lullaby

the kind that enchants, soothes your worries,

you do want to let them go don’t you?

he’s got the perfect remedy,

you’ve be dying for more, as he lets you

drink into that sweet seduction,

you’re his number one!

although he tells that to very client,

stroking the ego is his charm,

don’t you already feel special, there keep preening yourself

that mirror shows the perfect reflection,

and you never looked this good!

but hey, don’t let distractions stop that vanity,

it’s all for the greater good,

you know – you. you’re the greater good,

as the worries are extinguished,

the tremors of excitement begin to swell,

oh what’s the next adventure, with this stranger with eyes so deep

you could fall into them for e te rn it y … …

wow, that was quite a trip: a slip, he catches

you before your clumsy body falls flat on the ground,

brings you up again;

what a charmer

this stranger who then showers you with

fake love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self control

it’s quite easy really

when social norms dictate, all you need to do is trigger

you know

like pulling a plug.

something a child can do,

but you you you’re the star of this show

come now – let’s hasten

watch the crowd cheer,

the strangers congratulating you as they take your free food,

feels like joy doesn’t it?

and hey don’t forget the cherry on top of the cake,

that’ll make the audience go wild,

another display of whatever your heart tells you,

the stranger within

is dining arms in arms

within – hears your every thought, whims, wants,

don’t worry now. the mirror smiles back

and you do a little tap dancing,

a hop, a trot, a wink

you’re a hero!

my hero – the stranger lashes at the mirror

shatters

with many fragments

scattering on all corners of your mind, emotions and spirit.

there now,

you’re mine now,

ALL MINE.