35) That's What They Say

Mechanically and aimlessly on a path she trudged,
Arrows on every crossroad ensured she didn’t budge,
Why? Because she didn’t want to lose her way,
The smallest distraction would be fatal, that’s what they say.

On another route he walked, as aimlessly as her,
He had heard too that he was not supposed to wander,
Why? Because it’s a question of the honor he is worth,
They say he was destined to carry forward their legacy since his birth.

Their paths cross a few miles ahead, suddenly bringing hope,
And they look around for some common path to follow,
“But no”, they say, “that’s not what you are expected to do”,
“Don’t look up, don’t think straight, just walk on your own damn route”.

These are not the only two caught in this trap,
Thousands other follow the same ‘That’s what they say’ map,
What’s strange is that despite all those arrows and directions clear,
Most feel trapped in a never-ending maze of fear.

‘That’s what they say’ is a warning to make us play safe,
Why take a risk and try something that may fail?
And if we dare ignore the arrows and take an unmarked road,
“What will they say” becomes a threat that cannot be ignored.

I wish we had the strength to ask that question back,
How does it matter what they say if I want to follow my own map?
It’s my path to walk and they won’t be fighting my battles for me,
So leave me alone and let me take my risks and see.

The paths “they” know are worn down, new paths are the need of the day,
So give me the freedom to carve out my own independent way,
“They” will scowl, frown and express displeasure I’m sure,
But those that care will be proud of my new endeavor.

So let them dissuade and mark a well-worn path, it’s not my worry,
Because I have the courage to make one of mine & dream of reaching a glory,
Let them say what they want to, it’s our choice what to hear,
For what they say is in effect what they couldn’t dare due to fear.


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