by Peter Bergquist
As the disease advances,
brain cells atrophy
until all thinking stops
and rigor mortis of the mind sets in.
Unchecked, the strain
becomes contagious,
a rampant plague
mutating into cause,
regenerating war.
Early diagnosis is the only hope;
the only cure, to look within
and find the lie that can’t be hid.
Note to readers: The key to the word puzzle that inspired this poem is that in every "belief" there is a "lie."
Peter Bergquist is a native of Los Angeles with a BA in English from Princeton University . He worked for many years in the Hollywood film industry, primarily in production. He is married with two daughters and is currently teaching English in the Los Angeles Unified School District . He is also pursuing an MFA in Creative Writing (Poetry) from Antioch University .