the reckoning

the reckoning

so how much do i owe whom do i owe why do i owe them
the time has come for the reckoning yet i am unprepared
my pockets and thoughts are empty my heart barely alive
standing alone in the shadow of time a man lost and afraid
still blaring and blustering and shaking closed fists in anger
a heavy brow frames a face all the uncertainty well hidden
the occasional unsteady steps are surreptitiously disguised
slightly making adjustments as points of balance are sought
in the deep night i shiver and start at the unknown sounds
ghosts float behind shut eyes attempting to catch the soul
unaware and unprepared an easy prey for uneasy prayers
uttered insincere and in desperation protection from fears
a helpless child grown and turned into a helpless old man
sullen and stupid craven and careful the danger to beware