by M. Joseph Boehler

when power whispers lies that drown reason,

doubt bends the mind, twisting perception.

paradox reshapes the world, promising firm ground—

yet confusion lingers.

unseen eyes drive the heart to hide,

conformity's soft chains replace force.

silent self-scrutiny erodes truth,

and the inner compass drifts.

still, love's ember defies the dark,

memory preserves the heart's language,

and freedom lives where honesty runs deep.