The Road

Mud, deep at my feet—through clouds of gold dust, calling for me
 How can I reach?
 Safety lies far beneath, and I don't see what's pulling me
 Onward down this road.
 Two fish swimming side by side in the water as I wade.
 Above I see a light.
 Feeling no fear, I know what I will find ahead of me
 Calling out "I'm coming now"
 From mud to air we walk this road.
 Finding lies in what we think we've known.
 To know the road ahead, ask those returning.
 Beware the sweetest spoken words are poison burning.
 Leave weaker travelers behind, and wake while dreaming.
 Those who are strong move ahead, the wise redeeming.
 Keep moving if you fear the hand of death will reach you.
 Soon you'll find that fear will never save you from the truth.
 Bursting through the still, glass surface I gasp
 Finding my breath—the air is sweet
 Humming low in my chest I feel my heart,
 A steady drum beating through my soul.
 Blinded by the sun, my eyes open wide
 Finally I see. My gaze is high.
 Knowing now where I've been
 The winding road comes to an end.
 Never looking back, I'm running free.