Cast a Long Shadow

Cast a Long Shadow I used to fear those shadows that lurked underneath my bed, following my every footstep and filling me with dread. I hated the darkness that trailed every move I ever made. It was there when I tried to outrun it; it was there even when I stayed. As I became an adult, the shadows remained; they even invaded my mind. Past-due bills and heartaches; there was little but darkness to find. But there was always one shadow that made life seem so carefree. It matched my every step until the day I turned thirty-three. When we laid Grandpa to rest on the day of my birth The sun cast a fitting shadow as he was lowered into the earth. Just like before, that shadow filled me with calm and ease, the only time the darkness didn’t bring me to my knees. The shadows of my time are now nearing their end; I’m facing the biggest darkness of all; a refracted light that cannot bend. I know my departure will cast a long shadow on those I leave behind. They, too, will struggle with darkness as it permeates each mind. But my arrival Above will be welcomed with Grandpa leading the crowd and we will all stroll together where shadows aren’t allowed.