Freedom's Forest

Freedom is just a heartbeat away,
an open field awaiting my
calloused feet to finally touch
the soft, green grass.

Just one more brier patch,
a few more heavy breaths
until Freedom encompasses me,
saves me from the resented dependency.

But the forest is darkening
with their whispers of doubt:
Not enough. Just stay here.
It’s easier, safer that way.

I collapse to my knees,
rocks and thorns embedded in my skin.
Their faces reflect in the pools of tears,
whisperingscreamingdemanding…

Suddenly, Freedom is unattainable:
a childish dream born of childish stories.
The field is no field at all, just another forest,
another chance to fight and fall.