GRADUATION DAY

Stumbling blindly onward--
With crystal visions
Of an end looming near;
Finale of a life held dear--
Cold surreal habit
Thawing to the notes of an alien tune--
Beacons strong as the light that guides
Ships lost in murky fog--enticing
The curious--antagonized only by leaden
Fear whispering vogue half-thoughts;
"What if's?" holding courage prisoner
In its steely vise-like grip.
Rebellion? Out of the question.
Death of an aged version;
A self outgrown.

Compelled forth
Confronting
Imminent change
Future imposing--
Ominously bright.