Sunrise on Panting Ground

Here I stand 60 years old
Wondering if I’ll clear all the hurdles
My pace has been steady up to this point
And my dreams have yet to curdle

I know of others in this same class
They’ve fallen to their knees
Their hearts, their livers, or their wills give out
No longer caring to appease

The terrain gets rocky at unexpected bends
Storms stir up after making tough amends
Breathe into pain, stretch away from doubt
Finish the race with an ethereal shout

I know I’ll swirl in the freedom of knowing
Any nagging doubts were amiss
It was really about trusting my gut to lead
And never shunning the bliss

I’ll climb onto the medal stand
As the gold is laid upon me
The segments of my life well lived
May they travel well beyond me

Now I’m a free flying spirit
No chains of humanity bind me
Will I move up with a cosmic thrust
Or will the next mystery unwind me?

We’ll see.

Tricia Schwaba, September 2, 2021