to rise...
is to fall over and over again
on the same thorn,
that mock our chances;
as we get up
on bloodied knees.

yet, the chance
and change,
rebuilds our route into diamonds
which we curse on spot;
and thank years later.

but,
to rise
and see...
is the real
star,
that shine bright like a halo
in our smile;

otherwise, the rise
was yet another frown line
upon our dull
pretense.