So precariously contained

within each of our homes,

locked away, but pacing,

just waiting,

for us to err.

The slightest slip will set it free,

free to ravage,

free to kill.

Until we lock it away again,

never extinguish,

for we need its deadly power.

Are we so naïve

to believe, we can harness

a force born with the dawn of time,

a force created in the stars.

Use it as a tool,

abuse it, without care

for its power.

Its flame has touched my lips,

its paralyzing kiss,

so familiar.

It has licked the side of my face,

yet I too, cannot resist,

its uses plentiful,

its lure tempting,

my lesson not learned,

again I am burned.