The Trap
Watch out! Stand clear!
Don't get too close.
It's waiting for you.
When you're caught in the gears.
It won't let go.
It grinds relentlessly.
You think it's over?
I got news for you.
It's just beginning.
Run! Hide!
Do whatever you can to stay away.
But if you've been caught.
You'll not get out of its grip.
Now come the process.
The system loves to squeeze.
The courts need your blood.
The government wants your property.
The program will runs it course.
And will you be the wiser?
Perhaps if you pay attention.
Listen carefully.
Find a way to navigate the perils.
Zig and zag the obstacles.
Tell what truth you can.
But don't convict yourself.
Watch out! Stand clear!
It's looking for its next victim.
Does it have its eye on you?
Act nonchalant.
Whistle a harmless tune.
Slip away.
Out the side exit.
Take the back door.
Did it see you?
Run like hell and don't look back.
You were just minding your own business?
Likely story!
You were instructed to do it?
Can you prove that?
It's just your word.
Not worth a fiddler's fart.
Not worth their time of day.
But worth everything to you.
Your freedom. Your liberty. You're life!
Stay clear of it.
(above image: the_trap_12x9_ink_oil_pastel_on_paper by Allen Forrest)