in a town that might put a gun to your throat, or rip the roof right off your place

Instead of a brighter end
I plunge once more into abyss,
Figuratively bruised I cry in anguish
Wondering however did I miss,
Whatever detour or turn
And chance perhaps to thrive,
Rather the grim and looming reality
Of barely able to simply survive,
I made such valiant efforts
Following not just heart but practical mind,
Putting my own interests foremost,
Yet never forgetting to be kind
It was no fairy tale ending I demanded or sought,
But just some security and comfort,
For all this work; battles fought.
Cliches offer so little solace
The blank stares only hasten the pain,
And intensify the anxiety