Sniper*

You will know it’s time

When the trigger throbs

Beneath your finger.

The walnut stock resting

In your palm

Will ache.

You will hear the muzzle

Breath’s staccato 

Hiss.

You will know its time

When your lungs

Burn like a coal furnace.

You will know it’s time

When your mark

Opens his eyes

When he sees you

And knows his tomorrows

Are over.

Then you will know

It’s time.

*I spent a little time with a law enforcement Special Response Team (SRT). Not enough to roll with them, but enough to understand what makes them shudder.