Thorns

...for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh...
(2 Corinthians 12:7)

(06-09-08: Edited slightly)

A thorn against pale skin
The thorn-my woe, my sin
Pricks. My blood red seeping-
Leaving me within It’s keeping.

I’m held to devices
Of the thorn; my vices
Pale, haggard hands grope
Finger tips grasp the rope.
A gasp! Bitter lightning pain,
Fingers fall; the thorn has won-
Again.