I’m not an expert, but I know a thing
or three about how I exhibit stress.
It dates back to the turbulence the spring
of 1970 – Kent State, the mess
of us invading countries not our own.
I then developed pain bad doctors thought
was gallbladder-induced – they tossed unknown
no remedy. But later I was taught
I’m nervous (though I thought I was a rock –
a better doctor helped me comprehend
that doesn’t mean hysterical). The shock
was learning gas could hurt and never end.
Recalling then, I know in heart and soul:
of late I’m stressing way beyond control.