I stand, hesitant

Before me, the path splits

Splits and splits again, dividing a myriad times

The tangled web of choice pulsates gently

A dull glow, alive and breathing

I glance back, a moment

See the path behind me

Threaded in shining silver

A halo of darkened paths around it

Shriveled tendrils of choices not taken

I tear myself away, return to looking forward

Out over the future in all its perfect, fearful uncertainty

Then, a choice is made, my mind and heart unite — and ignite.

I step

I step through

I choose no beaten path before me

I choose no choice

But my own

I choose no path

But my own

Thread winds out beneath me as I step again and again

Glittering gold, not beaten silver

I choose my own way

Through

There is no other