Coming Of Age

I wished so hard that I could spread my wings,

but I was held by all those needing me.

I pushed hard at the many stifling things,

that made no difference that I could see.

Shackled by my siblings, who take their turn

at leaving home as I stay, frustrated.

I wanted so much to get out, to learn

the secrets that made them so elated.

Then yesterday I took that leap of faith,

and packed my bags to leave my childhood home.

I saw it truly, my coming of age,

as the first real steps of a freedom grown.

I leave behind the treadmill of caring,

and I gather to me all future days.

I look to my dreams, in hopes of sharing

some aspects of my life. Maybe. Some day.

Written 13/05/2009. Published in Poetry.com, 2013.