Demanding Lover

Happiness, you are a demanding lover.
For you, I must give up lifelong consorts.


No longer may I tarry with Anger,
or sleep in the arms of Self-pity.


Happiness, you demand I relinquish Guilt's embrace,
insisting I never again touch Envy.


No longer may I languish in the bed of Anxiety,
or kiss the lips of Phobia.


Happiness, indeed, you are the most
demanding,
possessive lover of all.


You would douse the contentious flames within me,
stripping me of their toxic, yet familiar voices
now turned to faint echoes,
and smoldering ashes.


I am bare, left only with you.
But, Happiness,
oh, the Joy of Freedom
with you.