TO HELL AND BACK

Those who have learned by experience what physical pain and bodily anguish mean, belong together all the world over; they are united by a secret bond. One and all they know the horrors of suffering to which man can be exposed, and one and all they know the longing to be free from pain.
– Albert Schweitzer

I've been to Hell and back again-

So much, I've lost count of the times.

Sometimes provoked there by salesmen-

At others, through dutiful climbs.

With each return, I slightly change-

Becoming more wise than before.

Evolved, as my cells rearrange-

I regain control of my core.

Although Hell's fire, burns deep with pain-

The journeys have all seemed worthy.

Feeling like a cool summer's rain,

Joy soon replaces agony.

I bear many scars from my trips,

Though in time they all seem to fade.

Like watching a solar eclipse,

The light always follows the shade.

I have gained true wisdom from Hell,

Always reminded of life's worth's.

The many advantages dwell-

In chances for many rebirths.

I have gained new leases on life,

In Hell many things I have purged.

I have learned to deal with the strife-

For I always have re-emerged.

Would anyone know what white-

Without being exposed to black?

The darkness would increase at night,

If the sun chose not to come back.

Heaven could not be recognized,

If Hell's presence did not exist.

Along the way, this was realized-

Happiness began to persist.

Now when shadows envelope me,

I never stay there for too long.

I've found that Hell quite faithfully,

Returns me to where I belong.