Tick Tock

I lay in wait, as you subtly attempt to pass. I clutch you with both hands, all the strength I can summon from the depths of my being. Every muscle locked in contraction, yet no measurable resistance, as I force my fatigued and damaged digits into your intangible substance. I struggle to determine if you're escaping me, do I hold a portion, as the rest flees my grasp, I know not. You have always gotten away, I knew this as I embarked in this, the most conscious, the most fiercely orchestrated attempt. Escaping me and penetrating my defenses equates to taking my vitality along for the ride. Fulfilling as the voyage may be, it concludes with my demise. The most valiant of efforts meet failure, always have. Alas, disregard the passing at what cost, at what sacrifice Others pay no mind, yet I contemplate. My gander wanders off to your display of measurement, units have elapsed........ you've ignored my pleas, absconded my clenches... I continue on.