Tranquilizer

(Poetry Scales 21)

100… 99… 98… 97
Let me stick this needle in your arm, this opiate.
Sleep, don’t see. Don’t contemplate your helpless condition.
Here’s a list. Don’t use it as a diagnostic tool.
Take it as a cure, a way out. Patient, heal thyself!
After all, we all know God helps those who help themselves.
There’s nothing you have done that you can’t also undo,
No humanistic ideal that’s unachievable;
Or, if so, mere good intention should count for something.
Whatever you do, don’t throw yourself at mercy’s feet!
Don’t turn yourself over to another Master, Lord!
You are the only master and savior of your life.
That’s the gospel message of the American Dream.