The Path West

Slowly slip the sands of time
Past my fingers, through my hands.
Crashing waves and pounding surf
Tonight’s the night we leave this earth

Companions brave our task complete.
Some come to live, some come to sleep.
But on my knees I come today
Forgiveness asked and penance paid.

As we depart this earthly sphere
I search myself for pride and fear:
A sadness now, a twinge of guilt
As glories fade and triumphs wilt.

Straight is our path into the west
Straight is our journey and our quest
The course is set, our way secure:
Old burdens heavy, old hearts now pure.

Slowly slip the sands of time
Past my fingers, through my hands.
A whispering breeze, a swan in flight,
A world awaking, an end to night.

Ted Tschopp