To The Athletes

As I watch television games

and see the action there,

I must admire that you compete

with all the pressure you must bear,

all of your efforts to excel,

all the pain from muscles torn.

Are all of the honors that you seek

fair payment for the load you’ve borne?

And when you wake to face your foes,

your body aching, mind in stress,

you rise to face the cruel throes

your opponent may soon express.

Win, or lose, you’ll awe the throng

and prove your strength of will is strong.