William Whispers In My Ear

Maybe this month, the good tomorrow, perhaps this day,
or even at the last minute, a simple joy will come. Already
I’ve made it through the night. At this stage of my life,

I’ll reserve judgment as to whether it is fate or a predestined
purpose for my suffering. Yet there are many others who suffer
more. Who am I to complain or doubt the value of my existence?

Shakespeare once said our doubts are traitors and make us lose
the good we oft might win by fearing to attempt another change.
What wrong have I done? I’ve looked within and found none.

I stand on solid ground and will not be swallowed up
in grief or fear or even pity. This above all; to thine own self be true
… If we are true to ourselves, we cannot be false to anyone. Therefore,

Let boldness be my friend: Arm me, Audacity, from head to foot!
— I would not wish for any other companion in the world
(other than you, my love).

Come, bring us good drink, and let the neighborhood rejoice,
hell, let the whole universe rejoice! For I have found myself
and no longer am I missing… my conscience can now rest.

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Shakespearean citations in order of appearance:
Measure for Measure, Lucio to Isabella in Act I, Scene 4
Hamlet, Polonius to King Claudius in Act I, Scene 3
Cymbeline, lachimo in Act 1, Scene 6
The Tempest, Miranda to Ferdinand in Act 3, Scene 1

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Image Credit: white flower breaking through the grief [pxfuel.com]