The Lighthouse

I looked for every reason to stay
I prayed,
“If there were any other way”
Not to have to leave this home I knew
The one I wanted to share
with you

I distanced—
hoping this would provide relief

but all it brought
was misplaced grief

And the lies kept calling me
Back into their grip

because they had begun to see
how it was starting to slip

My feet outpaced my heart
I had to leave—
and it was ripping me apart

The tension in the air
  continued to grow
and that is why
I had to go

I walked on
because I knew
this was bigger
than just me and you

Inside a system
that can be unkind

I pressed forward
through sorrow
as I left the others behind

The system swooped in with such charm
promises to keep me from harm

And as my mind continued to clear
the charm revealed itself as fake

The system was taken by fear
for my resolve had exposed a break

I spoke with steadier ground
the truth I could finally see

But in a system built on lies
truth is the enemy

The ending came in quiet ways
just policy and tone

I wasn’t shocked to be cast out
only sad
to be made alone

In time, some reached out
I wish I had been wrong

They confirmed every doubt
that it wasn’t me all along

Communication had to be hid
To avoid the system’s prowl

Yet the pressure became too great
When everything turned foul

I know you wanted to stand by me
but the risk became too great to tend

And I knew because I loved you
our friendship had to end

I will not go back inside
or dim myself to be near

But I’ll be here, shining bright
visible
clear

And if you ever look up
and need some light
to steady you on your way

I’ll be here with open arms
to welcome you home
that day