hush

and he cautioned me,

"speak softly, for words could break the spell,
and here even thoughts have echoes.

this place is the end of all things
and you are here to finish your path.

lay down your onus, carry it no further,
this end means a new beginning."

turning to face the road behind, i replied in a low and careful voice,

"i understand, but i cannot turn away.
i fear there is something i missed.
one last look to the past that is soon left behind,
for the road up ahead is but mist."