Respite

Most times I was only my penis,
sometimes my brain.

My affectations have often been clumsy,
anger always a struggle to contain.

I looked down on the weak with distain
and, too late, felt shame.

I make no claim to perfection.

My failures I have boxed up and labeled.
Success gathers dust on a shelf.

I am happy to be done with the struggle.
I am finally at peace with myself.