This Highway

Life is a highway we all must take

No sign to announce our on-ramp

Thrust into traffic, so cautious at first

On this pitted old road there is so much at stake

Watch closely, young driver, there’s no turning back

A merger that’s missed is forevermore passed

And you’ll wonder what travels awaited you there

Gone forever, that squandered alternative track

You will also see cars all mangled and burned

There’s nothing to do that will help them

Lives lived in conflict, addiction, pain

Careless with loved ones they’ve trod on and spurned

Others you’ll pass while they’re broken down

Just wondering as life passes by

Lost on paths missed, real and imaginary

As their exit draws closer they dream of renown

Others will seek for the next road

Choosing exits that weren’t meant to be

Never can they see tragedy in their choice

Blinded by slipping, nefarious load

Remember, my son, life cannot be undone

You must live with each mile as it comes

Look to the better highway that’s ahead

One day that grand exit will come.

Randall Madden

July 26, 2014