BETTER ANGEL, JUMP OFF MY SHOULDER

Devil makes a lot more sense.

He doesn’t jibber past or future,

Only speaks in present tense.

Devil never will reject me

Like those “Others” always do.

He tempts me, “Wait a little longer

And you’ll get what’s coming due.”

Devil says he’s my best buddy

(They are wrong, I’m always right.)

He plays at sleight of hand with shadows

Spinning darkness into light.

Better angel sighs and whispers

“Let your conscience be your guide.”

Devil simply shrugs and snickers,

“Forget all that, enjoy the ride.

Grab the world off its silver platter,”

Devil hisses like a snake.

“Losers are both weak and wimpy,

Nothing’s wrong with a little hate.”

Devil perches on one shoulder,

Angel on the other side,

The push and shove between them

Rolls on and on like the ocean’s tide.