Here I stand, no further will I fall,
This level at last I'll maintain,
Even if I cannot advance,
Even as I desire retreat.

Buffeted, battered, and bruised,
By sirens' songs tempted,
Goaded by malicious taunts,
My step scarce does falter.

Fears rise as specters,
Ghoulish visions of my downfall,
My confidence shaken to its core--
Still I will persist.

I fall at last to my knees,
They are sore on hard ground,
A Rock lies at my side,
Helping to right me.

Trembling I rise to my feet,
I struggle, then I stand:
Steeling myself for battle,
I turn to face my foe.