Tempation
The darkness surrounds me
As I walk in light.
Something stalks behind me
Its shadow walks ahead
I see the shadow alone
The shape of a demon
Horrible and grotesque.
Its stench precedes it
I wretch and flee.
The shadow pursues
Fear presses in
Suddenly, the smell vanishes
Replaced by sweet fragrances.
I stop, surprised
I glance toward the shadow
Back to its origin.
A lonely child stands
Covered in filth and grime
Looking for a playmate
Wide and unthreatening eyes
Trembling mouth
Curious eyes staring
It laughs.
Disarmingly grinning,
It beckons to me.
“Come play,â€