The Gatekeeper

I seem to be stuck 

in a straight and narrow line;

a pathway carved by others,

a cemented road 

that leads somewhere

as drab and sterile

as the many steps 

that brought me here.   

I see other pathways 

off in the distance; 

they twist and turn

pulsate with life;

undulating vibrancy

rich, fertile living

flowing mystery

and grace. 

Spirited elixirs

of other pathways

bubbles inside me; 

craving expression

and a call for courage, 

vulnerability,

and evolution 

through my living.  

The future that calls me forward

has a gatekeeper

a portal of transmutation

that I must step through. 

I must burn in the ashes

of my vanquished fears. 

Scream in anguish 

as I grieve the release 

of all that holds me here.   

The doorway holds no guarantee. 

I can only step forward 

inspired by faith;

fully committed 

to experiencing 

the mystery 

the adventure

the alchemy of transmutation.  

I may never make it 

to the other side.

This portal may consume me

devour my soul 

and spit me out.

That is transformation too my friend; 

an evolved soul 

in a different form

may be just what is needed

to travel the new road.

SoulCollage Creation and Poem by Raven Shree