Listen to the whisperings at the base of your crown
Muttering gentle reminders not to frown
As panic lays tight like a porcelain gown
But that smile will radiate even as you drown
A sweet yearning embittered by age
Once a fluttering, now a venomous rage
The desire you chose to cage
Now rattles the bars on a crumbling stage
No one else to blame, you'll scream,
As tired fears see fit to ruin your dream
Of an alternative life, more like scheme
That never came to fruition - evaporated like steam
You waited, and waited, and waited
For a perfect moment left undated
Unfounded and long belated
In your eyes, their shine since vacated
If only you had done more
Had courage to ease open the door
Stepped forward to bear whatever life had in store
Maybe, truly, you would have seen yourself soar.
