She skipped along the forest floor,
No less than ten years old, no more.
A pretty red dress skirted her knees,
As she danced among the fallen leaves.
One ribbon had fallen out of her hair,
And now lay forgotten, who knows where.
The time to go home was coming too soon,
As the morning gave up the day to noon.
She decided to play just a moment longer,
As the sun's heat grew steadily stronger.
She came upon three paths directly ahead,
Each with a signpost that had to be read.
The first sign said:
Those who choose to travel my way,
Will always be blessed with perfect days.
No pain, no sorrow, not even disease,
Just joy, and freedom; whatever you please.
A warning, before you start your stroll,
This life will be over before one bell tolls.
The second sign stated:
If you choose to tread this ground,
At first only sorrow will be found.
After many years of hardship and strife,
Then you may begin your wonderful life.
This journey will take you down many a mile.
Enduring pure horror before you can smile.
The third sign announced:
To those who wander down this lane,
You may encounter sunshine or rain.
I cannot predict how long it will be.
Perhaps a day, a year, a century.
Listen well, ’ cause I swear this is true,
What happens in here is all up to you.
A difficult decision for sure, she knew.
She wrung her hands, unsure what to do.
But in the end the choice was clear.
She walked the path that we all must adhere.
© S.E.S
Sara Stowell
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-journey-19/
