with every aching step feet swollen, skin torn promises burst like bubbles still inch by inch I move and with every move I rise It's not smooth this path through the treacherous marsh, over the rocky stretch through the dark tunnels crossing one by one, I rise I rise, come what may Wintry chill, scorching sun unwarned quakes or storms I brave it with the firm belief that I'll live through it all, I rise. (** Inspired by Maya Angelou's 'Still I Rise')