The Lifelong Adventure...

The Lifelong Adventure A Short Poem by Aurum Copyright © 2021 Aurum All Rights Reserved.

A young boy sets out on an adventure that would last a lifetime; he hoped it'd be a pleasant journey that lasted for eternity. He traveled for years without any woes; that is, until he reached the crossroads.

To his left was a path that looked mighty fine; to his right was a trail obscured by vines. He'd long since heard to take the path less traveled by; but before he went right, a hidden path caught his eye.

Below the cliff was a perfect place he could spend forever; he'd have gone if the leap felt just a little safer. The landing was surrounded by jagged rocks; and so soon in his journey, he was not crafty like the mighty fox.

Stricken with fear he lost his nerve; the boy was quick to run for the safest fern. Without even noticing, he'd gone far down the fine path; filled with remorse the boy forgot how to laugh.

Although this path was so easy to follow; each day caused him to feel ever more hollow. After far too long he tried to return; only to realize each step caused the way to burn.

However, the boy would not be dissuaded; so he circled far and wide growing more frustrated. He wandered so long he lost all sense of direction; but he kept hoping to see the way if he continued with his careful inspection.

The search lasted years until the boy met a guru; the wise-man said was already too late to undo. The boy asked, "How can I keep going down the path I never wanted?" The man only said, "It beats standing here feeling haunted."

Since that day he keeps going, but with eyes so dead he looks like a wraith; his only respite are dreams of what could be if he'd taken the leap of faith. But even so, the boy continues his lifelong ordeal; he walks towards the hope that another cliff is just beyond that hill.

Bonus Poem: So They Say...

Dwelling on the past is a recipe to live in misery; but is it not better to grow wise than live in serenity? Just know that regret is a poison for the mind; but you should tell that to my reflection reminding me of mistakes made long behind.

You must accept what cannot be changed; but the consequences leave me feeling slightly deranged. Don't worry, time heals all wounds; but time is why my soul is like war-torn battlegrounds.

You are beautiful the way you are; but only when people look from afar. It'll be a new day tomorrow; but then it'll be one more night of sorrow.