Define then amplify the rage bleeding from microphones

Crossfire at the checkpoints upon leaving home

Calculate with precision what we should take in stride

By lying when we falter knowing art imitates life is war

No less, no more

We could live by the times that could've been

Follow the signs to the bitter end

Lean our restless bones against the currents

And be carried West

Beyond the shadow of all doubt we convinced ourselves we're right

Grapple with such courage in our own fixed fights

Shed our second skin; our idle hands our idols hold

Creeping inch by inch to and from every milestone except love

The gift unfolds

In embrace of growing old