Temptation

By: Julia Murray

11-07-25

Temptation is at my door.

I want to answer…

Something in me says “no”

But my body’s saying “yes”

Temptation is calling me as I drift closer to the door.

Temptation is loud like thunder.

Temptation encapsulates me, the black smoke creeps into the house.

It’s in the air,

It’s in my lunges,

it’s in my body.

It sounds like I’m talking about sex but I’m not,

I’m talking about all the things I want to say but can not.

A voice from within me screams “don’t answer the door!”

My hand touches the doorknob and the door swings open.

Temptation is a black silhouette made of smoke,

Temptation has piercing purple and gold eyes,

Temptation is staring at me and offering his hand.

What is forgiveness but a friend I never call?

A friend I always say I'll get coffee with but never do.

Being with forgiveness is peaceful.

Yet, she’s a friend I never fully understand.

The funny thing about temptation is that I forget he’s there.

Standing in front of me offering his hand for me to take.

Something that was once so loud, is now silent.

Temptation is standing there keeping his smoke to himself and giving me a choice.

Yours Truly, Julia