
By Michael W. Raley
I never thought I would’ve ended up here,
After all the hard work, sacrifice, tears,
The late nights, the prayers, and conquering the fears.
I gave you everything I had, even my youthful years.
I now find myself in middle age,
Getting ready to turn the page
On a chapter I didn’t plan to write,
Like an unexpected fog rolling in on a clear night.
However, I am learning to embrace this unexpected second chance,
Even if it was born of the most unpleasant circumstance.
My heart and spirit for a time were broken and frail,
I am now determined to clear my path and blaze a trail.