The Game

The Game

I know the rules,
But refuse to abide,
Many others do,
And seem happier than I,

A game of chess,
Awaiting the next move,
Looking the opponent in the eyes,
And knowing what they’re about to do,

A game of poker,
A serious look across one’s face,
Maintaining a sense of mystery,
Not wanting to give anything away,

A game of football,
Taking advantage of the other’s weaknesses,
Plotting this for sixty minutes,
Until they finally give in,

Honesty’s not a top priority,
Openness is frowned upon,
Kindness is optional,
Generosity non-existent,

A game of love,
Of toying with the heart,
With an excitement, anxiety and bewilderment,
It pounds and pounds,

Winless to this point,
But refusing to give in,
As it’s only a matter of time,
Before that streak comes to an end.