Written On A Wall

Dear Brother

All of my life,

I've sought to protect,

Those that did not need shielding.

But you,

You needed it always.

When still just a child,

I answered the call to defend you.

To fight as your weapon,

To scream as your voice,

To be your hero.

You, who should have kept guard of me.

It hurt me not, because I was the warrior.

You were my purpose,

Keeping you safe from the world my job.

A job I excelled at.

Now, you need protecting again,

You need a safe place where nightmares cannot go.

But my hands are not strong enough to fight this war.

My arms are not long enough to keep out the pain.

My dreams not great enough for two.

I feel I am failing you,

Because I cannot take away,

What it is you're scared of.

So I cry when you don't look.

For warriors cannot show weakness.

I scold myself,

And scream to the gods,

"Why can't I be better?"

You hold your head up,

Ready to face the war alone,

Because in this fight you have no company.

No army to command.

No warrior to sacrifice.

Though I'd gladly bear the burden.

All my life I've meant to protect you.

To keep what hurts away.

On the verge of a rebellion,

I fear now more than ever,

It will be you to see the warrior end.

And I will lose my purpose.