take one more step

when you hear

someone say that maybe

in the next life

things will be better, be

different,

you can almost

hear

the sputter of their

engine,

the squeal of their brakes,

the smell

of exhaust coughing.

they've nearly

given up on this one.

heavied with the weight

of past

mistakes.

heartaches,

but they have breath,

they still

have a chance to change

the regrets.

there's love still to be

made,

a painting, a poem,

a song.

something to leave behind,

something

great or less than,

it doesn't matter.

just take a breath, take

one more

step before you're gone.