Labryinth

A Poem by Frank Pool

You have walked here many times before

 between the lines and arcs constantly returning

to pivot and strike out again. This is not new.

The nearness of water, the cool ocean breeze,

the flights of Canada geese are closer than

your heartbeat.  You have walked the lanes

of poverty, the avenues of joy, and the quick

boulevards of well-remembered song. Today

your feet return to the well-worn tracks

of childhood and beyond, of motherhood and

friendship as the straight highway becomes

your labyrinth. You will walk it lightly, in tears

and smiles, and your heart will swallow it whole.

You have passed through many corners, but

you know, straight at the center, you will walk

one last time, into the warmth of the Father.