Poetry: Crossroads

by Carole Somerville

Some Crossroads are like roundabouts
Check all is clear before entering
A pause gives chance to consider doubts
Drive on, not yet there, still in the ring

How many exits? More than two
Each road leading, who knows where?
Where to go? Is there a map to view?
Still on the roundabout. Could always stay there!

Drive round and round, take no turning
Times in life of thought, weighing-up and deliberation
All hangs in the balance during this intermission
Cannot last, must eventually make a decision.

Roads like ribbons, merge into the horizon
No hint of their final destination
Take a deep breath; time for acceleration
Can't linger here forever in trepidation

But what if? An understandable question
The answer more simple than may be realised
If ahead is not the place you were hoping
There will be other exits, it matters not what guise

A roundabout, crossroads or junction
There is always another intersection
Sometimes a chance to turn back and start again
Or try something different like taking a train!




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