Lead Weights

The soul flexes
   often in antagonistic states
   that stretch from lateral raises 
   like deltoids or the trapezius
testing merit or instability
pumping iron wills
   and inner strength
   the superficial to deeper layers
A ripple along the visual -
   no underlying signs of weakness
   until the bar drops
   and the leaden thud reverberates.
Alone at the mirror 
   we scrutinize and examine
   who we are
That singular cord,
   our life’s string, ties
   us to connective tissue
   or
These exercises in futility
   that shortens breath
   and makes knees wobble 
   or buckle.