It’s wondering why and if it’s worth it.
A to-do list that longer than eternity and a day that’s already full.
It’s the white hot burn behind eyelids when they’re closed and the pounding headache when they’re open.
Having to focus so much on staying awake and not screaming at the world that part of a conversation is missed.
It’s being choked by the air but being unable to break the surface.
Swimming constantly beneath the tension and pressure that’s just overhead.
A heavy weight growing until it’s almost too much and settling into everyone’s bones.
It’s an itch just beneath the skin that’s clawing its way to the surface and fighting for attention.
A panic sitting just behind it waiting for the barrier to be broken.
It’s a knot in back muscles and having to work despite soreness and exhaustion.
It’s forgetting what you need and remembering everything you don’t.
It’s searching for a way out but not knowing what to do with one.
It’s a disease that spreads each day until no one is left untouched.
It’s all too much.

It’s life and it’s killing everyone.

It’s falling asleep after a long day.
It’s the first drink of cold water.
It’s the song on the radio that describes the day perfectly.
It’s hoping when all the other options are taken.
It’s falling down and getting back up because that’s what’s expected.
It’s not giving up: refusing to lose, to be beaten.
It’s getting stronger after reaching the end of the rope.
It’s looking up and knowing that there’s a silver lining to each cloud.
It’s the belief that it can and will get better.
It’s believing there’s a positive for every negative: a yin for every yang.
It’s a deep relaxing breath.
It’s finding support in others.
It’s knowing someone will be willing to help out.

It’s life and there’s only one chance to live it.