If I Carry This Weight
 
If I follow a straight path
Never easing in a curve
That skips and dances on a moonlit night --
I will be safe
 
If I fear the slightest change
The darting glance
The shadow of myself --
I cannot be taken by surprise
 
If I carry this weight
Loyal to my burden
An invisible leaden ball --
I have a purpose
 
But if my body, my very bones, learns
To let the memories go
I am free to know
My feelings in each moment

copyright Janice A. Henderson