stranger

Walking along a lonely path. A fork forces a choice in direction, feelings of anxiety, of fear-overwhelm. A decision is made. Strolling unsteadily, but not looking back; the walls surrounding are foreign. The people new, different. Even the physique that embodies the energy seems alien. Change in scenery, lifestyle; taking anything that was left of what was thought to be known. Coming to a halt, crippled by headaches that make death seem a friendly escape. Passions, motivations, creativity, cares all evaporated. A distance between two individuals comes to attention. One known, comfortable, normal; the other unknown, strange. Looking at the reflection in the glass a stranger stares back, touching hair and cheek with callused fingertips and still not knowing them. Carcass disintegrating more quickly than those of peers, soon enough, there will be nothing, nothing left. At an impasse, body and mind pulsating with terror.