I thought I was through with you because so many years have passed peacefully.

These recent years are a gift, the best years of my life.

I suppose I have you to thank for that.

The loss and pain you caused has forced me to appreciate what I still have.

 

Why did you contact me again?

I thought I made it clear that I wanted nothing more to do with you.

You haven’t changed one bit; you’re the same self-absorbed, ruthless marauder.

I loathe the thought of you invading my life and violating my privacy again.

 

When you first forced yourself on me, fear prevented me from fighting back.

To me, your actions were a declaration of war and I vowed to retaliate.

Those I now call saints helped me wage my own little shock and awe response.

I’ll never forget having to sacrifice part of myself to be completely rid of you.

 

While you were gone I found others engaged in a similar fight.

Together we’ve found a measure of peace and comfort in our shared experiences.

As I pick up the pieces, I’ve discovered God-given strength I never knew existed.

It’s His Spirit that has given me hope, courage and an eternal song.

 

So, here we are, two adversaries facing off again.

I don’t know how you’ve managed to slip back into my life and catch me unaware.

Not one bone in my loving Christian body welcomes you back.

Your acts are vile and despicable, spreading tumors and malignancies.

 

Though you’ve come to take my body, you can’t have my spirit.

You may rob me of my breath, but you will not take my song.

I have found strength in weakness; I have found peace in the midst of sorrow.

Certainly, dreadful days lie ahead, but soon I’ll be smiling as I settle into my heavenly home.

For Mom