The straw of life looms shiny and vast – where does one even start?

Beginning is not an option, but pushing forward takes huge heart.

Hopes and dreams could be here – or there. Where might love be found?

Explore your straw from stem to stern, and all the way around.

You will get bruised along your journey, often bent and maybe broken,

yet, to not live fully ends sadly with regrets – and with words left unspoken.

The straw of life: So long, so bright – so daunting in it’s scope,

that only the truly brave of heart can do more than simply cope.

Of course there’s pain and failure lurking in dark shadows -

It’s what keeps the less courageous cowering in life’s shallows.

The possibilities seem endless, until the end is near -

Why is it always then that things become so clear?

The straw of life narrows suddenly – zigging instead of zagging,

Thoughts of what was squandered finally dawn and they start nagging.

How did we waste our precious life straw that affords no second chance?

We slid through it with our eyes squeezed shut, with nary a sideways glance.

Our straw will twist and turn and bump and grind when we will least expect it,

excuses and distractions will no longer be accepted.

So – use it, abuse it, learn and live large – don’t go without a good fight.

For one thing you can depend on – too soon will come that good night!

The End