Sado-Masochism - Yin / Yang Of Perversity Poem by Joshua C. Whiting

A syndrome flowing systemic within humanity
Devours the spirit like preying vultures
Touches the very core of insanity
Yet permeates all cultures

The infant receives its first slap
Emerging into life to breathe
Welcomes an embracing nap
In mother’s arms that relieves

Enters a world replete with love and hate
War, evil deeds one must contend
A child’s nature determines its fate
Positive values to always defend

To accept being born in sin
And seek redemption from above
To carry this burden to the end
Yearning forgiveness and love

Incubation begins in childhood
A system of punishment and reward
Steadily develops with adulthood
While praying to almighty Lord

Some are prone to one mode, then the other
All will experience both sides of the coin
It may begin with father and mother
Crude awakening, hopes severed, torn

Flagellation gives no explanation when abusing another
Inflicting or receiving pain sears the soul
Could turn one from sister or brother
With hurtful feelings dark and cold

Whether in war or peace
Torture or suffering to bear
Traits arise, seem never to cease
Heartless to need and care

Marquis de Sade gave it its name
That has lived through history
Leopold von Sacher-Masoch added to the fame
Names that reign in the annals of mystery

In Christianity, it began with the Savior
Torture, crown of thorns took its toll
Intriguing phenomena of human behavior
Exposing many a tormented soul