On Setting Out

On Setting Out


by Diane Smart


Time flows by slowly, quietly

We drift in the stream

surveying the shore,

content to pass,

but discontented still,

We change direction.


The current sweeps us away

From all we know

while we watch

those we leave behind

slip away

Their images grow dim.


Ahead the bright, churning water

Approaches, and fear

of what might happen

of what must happen

of what might not happen

As we are swept along.


The thrill of the ride comes

From knowing

there are no rapids

without rocks and

no ride worth taking

Without risks.