Not Just Yet

Can’t remember when
I didn’t have these shackles
Hateful restraints to my feet
Enslaving to the unseen captor
I scream for freedom
But the gagging muzzle
Overpowers still
Wriggling free is Herculean
The futility of an exercise
Voices beckon from within and without
”No smoke without a fire”
”Go search, inquire!”
I venture heavenwards
I implore, I supplicate
”This here is beyond me”
You pride yourself in my loyalty
I see your smile:
”Good and faithful one”
”Fear not, sunshine”
”You will bear my light further still”
”You’re an angel”
”And your mission’s done”
”Not just yet”
“Gird your hips!”
“Great victories lie just ahead!”