increasing are the stakes
as i approach the hall
one slip is all it takes
and from heaven i fall
unconcerned by the flakes
straining against the squall
stable despite the quakes
determined to stand tall
vultures hover in wakes
their squawking won't appall
reminded of my aches
i stay clear of the brawl
nor will slithering snakes
by their hissing enthrall
dwelling on past mistakes
only prolong the crawl
ongoing at all times
whether i wished or not
unaware of my crimes
ended up in a knot
forgetful of the rhymes
i lost sight of the plot
unheeding of the chimes
i gave all to my shot
crossing the great divide
provide steady progress
don't mind that it's too wide
do the next step address
don't let the slightest sign
fade away unnoticed
consent and realign
and forever persist
don't watch the spider trap
the fly heralding change
keep on bridging the gap
while success is in range
avoid the distraction
resist the temptation
lest precious attention
be drained to oblivion
for want of a cheap thrill
feel the pull of evil
indolence does mind kill
the rule is primeval
what's another setback
for us life's do-overs ?
it's learn to duck the whack
or redo the hours
fate blesses the wakeful
and spares them from torment
beautiful dutiful
earn your golden moment
until ultimately
at the end of the wire
appearing suddenly
in regal attire
the guardian of the hall
beckons you with a grin
smashes down the last wall
and bows to let you in