Seated in the Chair at table 5

Seated in the Chair at table 5

What will I be
when my body's failed me
When I cannot do
what needs to be performed
and cannot raise my arms
to be heard?

Will I fear
my body's ailing
settle into a darkness
of cold and extreme heats
inner fear?

What if my mind should go?
And the days ache long
and I can never remember when I've slept
and the people I remember have left me
though still beside me
and I perceive I'm all alone?

What shall I do?
Will I sink into silence?
Will I meet the weak like myself
and band together in loneliness' spite?

Who can fear the reaper
when and if my body's failed me
before I go?

-Matthew Koutzun