As the Eldest

I am the eldest, the pioneer, The first in the line, Every move I make is watched, Every choice judged in time. The trail ahead is un-traveled, No footsteps yet in the sand, I blaze the trail for those behind, Without holding a parents hand. The weight of the expectations, The pressure to excel, To set an example so perfect, To follow every rule. My siblings march behind me, With almost no burdens to bear, While I struggle under the weight, Of being the eldest heir. But though the path is harder, The journey all my own, I walk it with perseverance, And wisdom I have grown. For though I lead the way alone, They follow in my tread, The trail I've paved for them to walk, The lessons that I have led. So I walk on with purpose, My footsteps leaving trace, For those who come behind me, I clear the trail with grace.