forever

if forever had to end now...would we be happy?

would we be the epitome of 'the invitation' and 'desiderata'

or would we live by experiences gone by, 

bitterness engulfing us?

or would be able to stand up to those around us,

for what we believe in,

forgiving those who hurt us,

moving on,

giving second chances,

yet respecting those around us, while respecting ourselves.

are both uniquely exclusive?

or mutually complimentary?

does this make us weak?

naked to being hurt?

or does it take us to the beginning?

leading by example,

from the most humble,

loving,

forgiving,

sincere,

devout individual,

who also...

endured hardship,

loss,

turmoil,

hunger,

defeat...

yet turned it all into something positive.

the choice

is

YOURS!