The Uncertain Journey

All these years I've spent running,

racing to prevent the others from overtaking my world.

Unwilling to perceive those left behind.

Having no understanding of that from which we race.

Well-meaning friends say, cease running, turn and meet with those fears

Having no concept of the foreboding feelings we must face

to embrace those left behind in the race.

But the resolution was made that inspite of the apprehension

Some special friends would be allowed to draw near.

So the flight gradually slowed and assurance created.

And a glimpse of our environment unveiled.

Yet by slowing the pace the others caught up.

Those left in the rear receiving a name.

Did we know the energy behind a spoken affirmation.

Merely a few insignificant words poured out that final boost of energy

that those once detached required to make themselves known. "told you", they announce with satisfaction,

we've been here all along patently running in the rear.

How can it be that I didn't notice that the constricted path left no leeway for turning back.

That the only course to the otherside will be by way of the hidden shadows,

beyond the sheer mountain face,

walking down the narrow twisting trail.

That madness need be challenged to encounter the harmony on the opposite side.

Nevertheless at the end of the pilgrimage, who will I find?

Which one will survive, who left behind?

Moreover what will be gained once we've encountered the pain?