Final Ride

Back when his eyes were bright

and his back was strong

he could do it all

On paper, the world was his



Events unfolded, as they should,

and his freedom became tethered to

self-imposed visions of grandeur,

fear of the unknown stole some of the shine



Youth, they say, is wasted on the young



Spending time looking for an opening,

an attempt to escape the inevitable,

he sped down back roads,

adding hard miles to his ride



And when his carriage gave way, bones and tires

protesting too many potholes and dark alleys,

he paused to discard his map

and confront his fears



Holding onto the idea that superficial flaws

may be many but quality of spirit sustains,

he was ready to take his

final ride





photo: Write Divas



prompts: Write Divas, Poets on the Page, Five Minute Friday/31 Days, #PoetteerChat