I hold my life in my hand before me
My outstretched arm aloft in tremulous awe
As I gaze in wonder
At this emotionful entity that sits
In the unsteady palm of my hand.

A gift or a curse to hold such
A fine-spun quiddity?

I do not wish to crush it in my protective greed
I do not wish to put it down lest it roll away, or
To leave it somewhere safe lest I wander too far and lose its light
Yet keeping it safe is a responsibility that overwhelms me
A task I cannot be entrusted.

I would give it you for safe keeping
If you would take it.
If you would unburden me of this needful chain
And guard for me forever
The life I will never lead

The unfulfilled dreams of a coward.