THE CHOICE

When darkness comes and leaves me here,

I feel safe from my greatest fear.

I can’t leave now, I could not face

Being alone in life’s long race.

The life I’ve lead has felt so wrong.

It seems unreal and very long.

I do not know which path to take.

Each step is filled with fear and ache.

The road ahead is insecure—

How will I ever know for sure

The choice I make will lead my life

To happiness or endless strife.

I can’t depend on others’ strength

To lead me through my life at length.

I must emerge my inner self,

To take control of life itself.

9/30/1989