I look at the winding path behind me. Some sections are clean and even; some are littered with leaves and dust; while some are broken and crumbling.

I stand at a crossroads and stare with hesitation at the looming sign that marks the spot.

The faded and cracked sign that reads "2016" has a beauty in its weathered facade that is matched by the sparkle and deep tones of the "2017" sign that has appeared crosswise from the top.

I look to where it points but see nothing. No path, no light, no markers to determine its borders.

Slowly, as if emerging from a dream, sand begins to collect at its threshold.

With beating heart I take a step. The path lengthens to the edge of my foot. I take another step and the path, again, grows.

The road ahead is mine to create. I alone shape its direction, its condition, and its scenery.

Onward I walk…

R. Wolf Baldassarro