Crossing the River

She sits on the bank, gazing out Across a vast expanse of glittering silver That sparkles under golden sunlight, And blinds when she Stares. Blackened, dead grass spreads beneath her weight. Her demons smirk and chuckle as she sits, Wondering what is on the other Side. Standing, her demons howl and scream. Their horrible laughter echoes all around As the heavy chains rattle And remind her that she is Trapped. Straining her eyes, she can see that, On the other side, The grass is Green. There are flowers... There is Life. And a child Beckons with an open Hand. She turns away, Dragging heavy feet. Behind her, the glimmering water Seems to Cry. No… Not the water... The child. Calling out, Begging with lovely Shining eyes. So, With hands that shake And tremble, And my demons shrieking in protest I bend. I unclasp my shackles. I wade into the water. I cross the river. And leave my demons To drown Behind me.