i am not a snail

a snail carries a heavy bulky shell on its back.

up a blade of grass, across a sandy patch.

such a hefty burden the shell is,

but the snail carries it still

because it is home

--protection and warmth

it is comfort.

I am not a snail

yet I too had a burden

no less heavier than the snail's.

mine wasn't a home

but it promised warmth

and comfort, dreams come true.

childish promises.

lofty castles built of clouds

rich in romance and fantasy

with ever changing guises. 

when all is said and done

I hold in my gentle hands

air, and fading memories.

I am not a snail

I want no burden.

Not of love or concern,

void of hatred or belittlement.

It's time to skip off the cliff

on which I have stood for years.

Let me unfold my wings

long hidden, forgotten

and flap, flap

flap!

thank you, 

for being ever wiser.