I have seen evil that comes sweeping in like an enraged lion, claws slashing, fangs gnashing: snarling, leaping, twisting, devouring in an insatiable blood lust. I have seen evil that comes slinking along the wall, silent in the shadows, waiting, pouncing from the darkness. I have seen evil that comes whistling along the sidewalk, nonchalantly walking as if without a care in the world: easy, comfortable, reassuring, arm resting on your shoulders, without a single disturbing word as you sink slowly into the sucking sand. I have seen evil that pretends it is there to help, wide-eyed and innocent, smiling and confident, a strong hand lifting you up and holding you while the other steals away everything you hold most dear. I have even seen evil that holds sway over others, convincing them that their own truest fate hangs in its hands, giving pittance and demanding sustenance. I have seen a variety of evils, yes.

But all of them share this; they are evil. And when evil is exposed, every form of it turns violent, lashing out at those who dare call it evil. Bare-fanged and hostile, it seeks to devour and destroy. While it may happen in the immediateness of its onset or after decades of beguiling practice, eventually, every host of evil becomes its victim.

Guard my heart, O God!

H. Arnett
12/17/09