Character Takes Shape

Character takes shape

like a path heavily traveled,

with foot impressions, too many to tally,

leveling field and ruins that stand in the way

of all that is meant to be, or not,

just is, for man and beast

and their demand of access

toward somewhere different

where tomorrow they lay.

Whispers are heard

in the traveler’s head.

A conversation with self

is said with every stride’s

intention, totally undoable.

Steps that can’t be retrieved once placed,

nor their penetrating marks

that appear identical,

but for certain aren’t.

No sign of where this path

began or will end

unless you stop all together,

giving up, giving in.

“Walk on,” says the whisperer.

Let character be paved

on each hill

and valley below us;

impressions of real life and weight

submerge, till only dirt remains

for others to follow

until courage and curiosity sets in

and they plow their own way,

molding and displaying traits

on new ground tendered

that is never completely straight;

narrow, yes,

but inevitably full

of plenty human-like mistakes.

So don’t over concentrate

on what’s taking shape beneath.

Walk on and enjoy the view

where the company

of other fellow travelers

along this characterized path

you are destined to meet.

~2011 Vaughn Wood