Bitter winds cut at exposed flesh,

An onslaught of buffeting gusts;

Though wearily I soldier on,

Forcing my abstract repentance.

The cold pierces watery eyes,

As they flicker madly within,

Recalling my solemn downfall,

When cowardice outfought the truth.

Now my mind is blurred by a haze,

Lost in senseless self-scrutiny.

Vaguely I hear reason’s soft voice,

Begging I cease this martyrdom.

But determinedly, I trudge on,

Resolved to endure my penance,

Intent on finding redemption,

Bound by unnatural despair.

Let no light assuage chilled flesh,

Let no light unchain sullen mind.