Walking Each Other Home

Walking Each Other Home
by Lyn Marinello

We are born into an unknown world, placed in outstretched arms
Showered in love and attention; protected from all and any harms
Taught to speak in kindness; to walk tall in faith and pride
In God's commandments and the Golden Rule eternally abide
In teenage years we might rebel and push the envelope we're in
Dye and pierce and smoke and drink; to parental-fatigued chagrin
We seem certain to known everything, til one day we find we don't
Those 'friends' we thought would have our back, simply can't or simply won't
And we once again find comfort in that envelope we left
We are unconditionally welcomed back, defeated and a bit bereft
College and adulthood open avenues unknown
One foot based, one set to bolt; we are stepping out on our own
Yet there's safety in the holidays, surrounded by familiarity
Re-grounding, reconnecting in sweet comfortability
As we age we find our way; unique to every single soul
Surround ourselves with good support; those folks who truly make us whole
Our blanket of security is tattered through the years
Patched by those around us as they comfort us through our tears
There are jobs and opportunities; sights to see, trails unexplored
Losses to be overcome and faith to be restored
Sometimes the road gets bumpy, life's potholes take a toll
We retreat to those we know and trust as they step up in their role
We wander through our highlights; stroll down memory lane
Realizing those connections are sometimes all that kept us sane
Take care of those around you; compliment, uplift
Your days on earth - unnumbered; every second is a gift
As the dinner bell rings on life; feast with loved ones at your table
Serve hope and faith to all who dine whenever you are able
And afterwards, enjoy dessert; and the company of those at hand
Savor the richness of both those things and try to understand
That the sun will set for each of us, no matter where we roam
We are our brother's keepers and we're just walking each other home.