Every road I've walked has led me to a new place.
Roads I've walked have been carved and paved of my own two hands.
On them, my feet have walked clothed and bare.
I am no stranger to the occasional sharp stone,
Or stubbed toe.
To be frank, I've cursed like a sailor and kept my silence.
I've walked roads made of dirt, earth, pavement, sticks, and stone.
Along the countryside or through the cities at night.
I've seen it all with both of my eyes.
Never in one place too long.
I don't have places to be or somewhere to go.
I just wander,
I'm not a drifter nor a nomad.
Although if I wanted, I could always plant my feet and find a place to call home.
I do not.
I'm not one to place my roots in one spot.
So I wander, often alone, but a time or two a person who has been traveling or led a stray.
We share brief moments or travel for days.
No one has stayed with me long.
Maybe a night or two or just a minute to talk.
Sadly, I forget their voices and faces.
Much like an old song from my childhood.
Lyrics nothing but a blur Although the melody stays.
Humming to myself, I always smile.
I know that my youth is precious, but in my old age, I will stop walking.
My journey will end, and I do not know.
On my end, I will smile one last time.
I will remember my time well spent.
For now, I continue to walk.
In the rain and snow.
The sun and clouds overhead.
Yes, my youth may be precious, but I will stop walking when I'm dead.
Title: Give and inch, Take a mile
2023
Jade Igert
