“The Road I Didn’t Choose"

I look back sometimes

not to stay there,

but to understand

why I’ve carried so much.

They told me

the strong survive—

but they never said

how heavy surviving can feel.

I didn’t choose this road,

it unfolded beneath me

when doors stayed locked

and dreams cost more than I could afford.

I watched others

walk through gates I only dreamed of,

while I built a home

out of broken chances

and borrowed strength.

But still,

I am here.

No medals,

no crowd clapping.

Just breath.

Just will.

Just this quiet, steady ache

that somehow still believes

something beautiful

might find me too.