on guard

i've been running around lately

not quite sure where i'm heading

but i see others do the same

so i follow their lead.

it's easy to get in the rhythm

that everything revolves around being noticed

and following the pursuit of anxiety and fear.

and i know you told me to stay ready

but i just wanted to succeed --

which now seems kinda funny

because i know you told me not to worry

that one day this would all be over

and you'd be here to stay.

...

you told me to stay ready

like a soldier fit for an unpredictable war --

but it's hard to compromise everything else

for the sake of your uncertain promise.

and it's easy to follow the herd of life

into the ruins of certainty

(and you know this is difficult for me).

...

but for your promise

i'll keep watch for you

i'll sharpen my sword and shield

i'll practice these wornout limbs

i'll make sure i stay focussed

i'll make my whole life ready

i'll clean up the armour i threw away

i'll carry your promise next to my heart

i'll never give up

i'll never lose sight

i'll never stop being on guard