Dear Worry

Often I find you when I awaken in the middle of the night. You grasp me at the throat with a cold and sweaty palm. You grip me with all your strength, not wanting to let me go. When I fight to pull loose, you tighten your grasp on me. It takes all my strength to fight you off. You possess me. I must be fully awake to fight you and when I win a battle with you it is only temporary. I squirm and turn and even at times find it necessary to run from you.

I feel your pain in my lower back. I feel deep insecurity in my throat. You attack my thoughts, making me think I am not good enough to earn the money I need to support my family. You deceive me in that way. Your assault is insidious and complete and you win small victories with your cunning and ruthlessness.