The Other Way

Such is the fate of the timid

That chance will be denied

Scenes of what might have been

Are painted on eyelids, inside

….

Memories that have no past

Faces and places never seen

Hands wanting for the holding

The other side of time’s screen

Dreamers know such losses

On nights that last all day

Things that would be different

Had they taken the other way

Night Watchman

Entrances all locked and fast

Bolts checked around the back

Windows secured to the last

Holding, at bay, attack

 

Family safely stowed abed

Enjoying well-earned sleep

Though heavy hangs the weary head

The watch still his to keep

 

Guttering lamp gives meagre light

Cold gnaws and gathers round

Corner shadows hold close the night

Time passing without a sound

 

A few more rounds; he might then rest

Wolf kept safely from the door

Dawn’s rays reveal its sad bequest

His burden he’ll carry no more

One’s Lot

Pain and suffering

Misery, fear

Common hardships

Many must bear

 

Though some exist

Without such woes

Not mindful how

For others, it goes

 

But all will know

They share equal fate

When time is up

On that future date

 

What if, then,

Each gets their due

And what lies in store

Is all up to you?

 

If not so, fine!

Carry on as before

No need for insurance

Unless you’re not sure