Walking into the Fire

One day my vitality will dwindle.
My body will weaken.
My mind may be lost.
My life will end.

Today, this life lies before me.
A moment in time
To nurture my spirit
And grasp all the world offers

Will I stand on the fringe?
And fall into line?
Choose a backseat,
And comment from the sidelines?

Or will I grasp my fate
Take my chances
And dive into my soul,
Reaching for my star?

Fear overshadows.
I can feel the edge.
I may twist in the wind,
Or fall on my face
And what if I get burned?

I've been warned.
I should look both ways
And wear a helmet.
Avoid running at night
And talking to strangers.

Courage compels me
To anticipate the moment
Stay in the game
Break through barriers
Dance in the fire
And break all the rules.

I know seasons will pass,
My time will come.
If I avoid life can I prolong it?
But then, to what end?