The Hunt Is On
by Michael Doyle

In distinguishing past from present,
It's hard to say which grudge is most to resent.
Both have their own aggravation,
But neither can be allowed to be a distraction.

Eyes and mind, center and focus, on the target,
However hard it is to let go and forget.
Neither is imaginary, and both are real.
Still, we cannot let them interfere with the deal.

Lord, have mercy as we figure it all out.
In an operator's calculations, there's no room for doubt.
Close the window and shut out the chill of night,
There is often only one chance to get it right.

There's nothing that cannot get old.
Though some truths can't be told.
These are the moments feeling bought and sold,
All a man can do is to let things unfold.

The enemy is not just the opposition,
But is something evil in any position.
This is not something we can confuse,
Because if we do, we will surely lose.

The wounds of the human body
Cannot match those inside that undo me.
These are kept inside but cannot hide,
Because the eyes betray what they cannot confide.

Screaming for vengeance leaves a nasty taste.
One wrong decision brings it all to waste.
The right thing to do will always be right
Despite the demons that keep us awake at night.

Following the tracks, we'll follow the blood,
Even if it means crawling through the mud.
These half-shattered memories can come like a flood.
Still, the hunt is on, and it's in our blood.

(c) November 12, 2026   Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved