The Shadow Behind

As I walk along the wooded path,

There is always a shadow behind me.

It is not that which reflects my form,

But one that haunts me and won't let me be.

This day I wish to be free of the shadow

For I'm always on edge when it's around.

So I look to either side of the path,

But there is no shelter to be found.

I begin to run, try to get away

But where I'm running to I do not know.

Those whom I pass don't know it's there,

They don't know I have this monster in tow.

At times the shadow is quite small

I can barely feel it is so near

Today, though, it is large and fierce

And brings to my heart only fear.

Fear that the shadow will drive me crazy

Fear that it will never leave me alone

Fear that I'll never find the solution

Fear that I seem I haven't grown.

I want to turn and face the shadow

That follows me day and night.

But I fear I do not have the strength

To endure that tremendous fight.

So I will work to build the strength

To fight the shadow behind

And when I finally get the strength

The shadow I'll no longer find.