Exam stress – a poem

I awake sweating profusely

in the middle of the night,

My heart is beating wildly

I’ve had a horrible fright.

***

You may reflect and wonder

what could cause such anguish,

When my mind really should

in a peaceful place languish.

***

I dreamed I had an exam to write

my preparations for it

had been quite light,

I really felt I was not ready

and would not be able

to keep my mind and hand steady.

***

My full scholarship

I would clearly lose,

If by failing, my professors

belief in me I abuse.

***

I sit up in my bed

eyes wide with shock,

My mind gradually clears

and I can take stock.

***

My exams were all over

a number of years ago,

Realization of this dawns

Although its coming is slow.

***

My days of endless study

are long since over,

I lie back down in my bed

and gradually regain my composure.

***

by Robbie Cheadle