By David Roth
© 15 October, 2003
It is stronger and more compelling
At some times than others.
But when it surfaces,
The need is overwhelming.
All consuming in its demand for my attention,
It drives me to the point of insanity,
Where there is nothing I will not do
To quench the need.
An addiction? Perhaps.
An obsession? It has been suggested.
A weakness or frailty? Most certainly!
For the throes of withdrawal must be avoided at all costs.
The sleepless nights.
The agony.
The indescribable pain.
The uncontrollable tremors.
The need.
It haunts the dark and sinister recesses of my mind,
Seeking in its all consuming passion
To overtake and control me.
And, sadly,
For I am weak and undisciplined, I succumb to the need.
And I don’t care what has to be done.
I don’t care what sacrifices must be made.
I am blind to the wonton destruction affixed
To the meeting of the need.
I am just a man,
Lowly and without resistance.
And when the need surfaces;
When it has so gripped my soul that I am powerless to resist
I peel back the foil,
Tear loose the thin, white strip of paper
Disregarding the tiny blue letters of warning,
And satisfy my need
To the exclusion of all else
For the chocolate has called
And I must give in.
