Hiking thru my Mind

I walk alone through a winding dark cave. Carrying a small light of sorts, I eagerly try to find my way out.

The light flickers and panic ignites.

I shake it. I rattle it. The flicker recedes and a full beam of light returns.

“Pick up the pace, time’s running out.”

In an instant, the light dies and leaves me stranded.

I stand frozen, not knowing which way to turn. Hands outstretched, I cautiously inch my way to a wall of the cave and use it for guidance.

After walking for what feels like an eternity, I realize that in my attempts to find my way out, I have been walking in repeated circles.

In defeat, I slide to the ground and allow the blackness to consume me.

I whimper. I sob.

(It makes no difference.)

The tears subside as I begin to accept my situation.

The sound of my circular breaths fills the space.

I am at one with myself alone in the dark. Hours pass.

Day breaks and a tiny crevice of light crawls inside the cave.

I follow the ray and exit.

A vibrant, lush new world awaits.