This shaking keeps me steady. I should know.
                                 -Roethke

I know I scared you last night by shaking,
the only time you were forced to share
a dream that seemed so bad upon waking.

Your left hand pressed upon my aching
thigh, holding it steady, you unaware
that MS was causing my wild shaking.

You know my nervous system could be taking
over at any time; disease is unfair.
Remember: it seems bad when you're waking.