I dabble (very lightly) in songwriting, and this is one I wrote a few years ago about living with chronic illness.
Just the Facts, Simply Stated
I’ve been forgetting to pray.
Lately I guess there’s not much left to say.
I’m not feeling so well,
Though you might not be able to tell.
Oh my God, I can’t pretend anymore
That I’m ok with this; I used to live,
But these days I just survive.
Not all the symptoms are plain,
Just like the scars don’t measure up to the pain.
These aren’t very nice dreams;
I can’t find relief, awake or asleep.
I’ll paint a sign: I need a rough and low voice
To sing to me a lullaby,
Slightly off-key, and tired.
They say I’m too good at this game,
Like telling the truth would change anything.
Besides, I’m too tired to explain,
And I’m afraid of what my voice might betray.
Don’t touch that dial. Leave the radio on
So I don’t feel so alone;
Just let me hear one more song.
Most days, the cost is too high,
And leaving my room is just not worth the price.
I’m losing my concept of time.
Now it’s been so long, I think I’m almost resigned.