You can visit the past; you just can’t live there.

By Jamie Lynn Juniper

Looking back, I start to stumble forward.
Looking back, I start to look inward.

When I do, I start to cry.
When I do, I want the reason why.

Why did I do the things I did?
Why did I say the things I said?

I want to go back and erase the past.
But that ship has sailed, it raised its mast.

I look out over the horizon; I can barely see.
The future, and what it holds for me.

I’m stuck in the past; I can’t seem to break free.
I want to move forward but I’m stuck, I can’t leave.

My feet in the sand, I can see part of the ship.
The adventure has started, the beginning of a trip.

My future is out there but I remain on the shore.
Then it comes to me, as an idea strikes my core.

You can visit the past; you’re a tourist who can roam.
But you can’t live there, it is no longer your home.

Life is a school, with regret our lessons in life.
It may not always be easy; it may be as sharp as a knife.

Going forward in life is not always a smooth sail.
We hit rough weather, a strong gust, and a gale.

But the storm will pass, and the anchor will lift.
Your future can start, no longer adrift.

Let your adventure commence, let it finally start.
Get out your map and your nautical chart.

As you prepare for your voyage, your upcoming trip,
I remind you to remember this vital tip:

You can visit the past; you’re a tourist who can roam.
But you can’t live there, it is no longer your home.