A Gleam of Purple & Gold

author’s note:

It's not my trail--it's our trail.


A GLEAM OF PURPLE & GOLD

When I first glimpsed
that mountain peak
I believed

I'd seen my destiny:

I believed
I finally understood
the purpose
of this rising trail.

Thus
as I continued to step
I did so with intent.

Nonetheless
I've doubted the reality
behind my stated aim
because clouds and other
atmospheric conditions
usually keep the peak
hidden from me.

Fortunately, the work
of putting one foot
in front of the other
distracts my mind
from excessive worry

that is
until fatigue finally catches me

then I'll begin to wonder if
I'm actually making progress
or if what I seek even exists.

And so, I'll stop
and gaze upward
once again--
desperate for
another glimpse...

and indeed
with patience
I'll eventually see a gleam
of purple and gold:

an image experienced
as a vision--
proclaimed by the spirit
to be truth.

Then
with doubt diminished
and hope renewed
I'll continue to continue.

Though my heart will want to wait
for another bright beam
I know, from experience:
to linger longer
will only slow my progress

and to walk while looking up
is a sure way to trip and fall.

© 2017, Michael R. Patton
Searching for My Best Beliefs: a poetry book