She skipped along the forest floor, <br />No less than ten years old, no more. <br />A pretty red dress skirted her knees, <br />As she danced among the fallen leaves. <br />One ribbon had fallen out of her hair, <br />And now lay forgotten, who knows where. <br /> <br />The time to go home was coming too soon, <br />As the morning gave up the day to noon. <br />She decided to play just a moment longer, <br />As the sun's heat grew steadily stronger. <br />She came upon three paths directly ahead, <br />Each with a signpost that had to be read. <br /> <br />The first sign said: <br />Those who choose to travel my way, <br />Will always be blessed with perfect days. <br />No pain, no sorrow, not even disease, <br />Just joy, and freedom; whatever you please. <br />A warning, before you start your stroll, <br />This life will be over before one bell tolls. <br /> <br />The second sign stated: <br />If you choose to tread this ground, <br />At first only sorrow will be found. <br />After many years of hardship and strife, <br />Then you may begin your wonderful life. <br />This journey will take you down many a mile. <br />Enduring pure horror before you can smile. <br /> <br />The third sign announced: <br />To those who wander down this lane, <br />You may encounter sunshine or rain. <br />I cannot predict how long it will be. <br />Perhaps a day, a year, a century. <br />Listen well, ’ cause I swear this is true, <br />What happens in here is all up to you. <br /> <br />A difficult decision for sure, she knew. <br />She wrung her hands, unsure what to do. <br />But in the end the choice was clear. <br />She walked the path that we all must adhere. <br /> <br />© S.E.S<br /><br />Sara Stowell<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-journey-19/
