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The Leash of Fear

I see the day before me
as I observe the sun.
I can see the athlete
in the small girl as she runs.

A kitten becomes a lion,
a bud to a flower,
a pup to a wolf,
and I...anything, less I cower.

Like the balance of a tight
rope walker, fear holds tight
with practice, with patience,
it lets in dark but shutters light

Though we would be our own
master, it is not always so
for fear, anxiety, hesitation
The foe.

And the runner stalls,
the kitten cries,
the bud dies,
the pup calls,
and the walker falls.

Melissa Snell
11.I.08


Who are you really, Wanderer?
I see your easy smile as you
pass by me on the street,
sandals on your sore feet

Have you walked far, Wanderer?
Like your feet, your face is
covered in dirt that no
amount of water can wash

Are those scars on your hands,
Wanderer? I see and I
wonder. On the mountain
the sun sets

Are you headed home friend?
Will I see you soon? If I
don't, remember me as I
pray to remember you, Wanderer.

Melissa Snell
27.I.09

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