Facing The Rope

This was written by me durring a time of very deep depression durring my time in the navy. I was out at sea, and had been awake for 76 hours strait... Our ship wa very old and we had many things break down on our way to the mediteranian... i had been up consistantly for 3 days strait supervising and performing many repairs to keep our ship afloat and running. we finally got things under control and i had 3 hours off until i had to go on watch... frustration, sleep deprivation, and pain had worn me very thin... not 20 min. after i laid down on the floor to take a nap and get some rest i got called into the engineering office. Amcross regrets to inform you that your uncle is dead... have a nice day. I was sooo defeated i could not even cry. and this was an uncle i grew up with and who had a hand in raising me to a small extent. my comand was very supportive and even got me home, eventually. Yet, I felt alone, helpless, trapped, and weak. That night i composed this poem and almost completely fell apart in my rack. I still stood my watch and did my job, but when i got off, i broke. The phrase "what does not kill you, makes you stronger"... well i have lived it. I survived my pitiful attempts, and am now far to strong to fall that far again. my pain and sorrows turn to rage and anger long before i reach that point anymore. That period in life taught me many things and i do not regret it. it made me a stronger and better man. and from that time of desperationd and extreme anguish was born this short odd little jumble of words....


Facing The Rope


I am going to face the rope.

Do not look for me tomorrow...
For I go to face the rope.

I've paid my dues and cut my ties...
Cause I am going to face the rope.

I have bathed in oil and breathed incense...
For I have to face the rope.

I am dressed in my best and I slip on by...
For I am off to face the rope.

I find my place and climd the stool...
I am close to facing the rope.

I close my eyes and kick away...
I am now facing the rope.

I dangle now. No life in me...
For I have faced the rope.

Do not look for me tomorrow...

For no one beats the rope...

-The Hangman.