Not That Simple

I can’t tell you
How I got here.
My life is not a story
With plot and design.

It’s not that simple.

It began before
My beginning
And will continue
After my ending.

I am the product
Of other’s desire
Choices made
Without my consultation.

All I wanted
Is little more than gravel
Along the roadside
Of what came before.

I am the forward progression
Of wishes
Voiced in darkness
Through lips I never kissed.

But I am not benign.

Those coming behind me
Are following pathways
I cleared
Across rivers I forged.

I know the names of some
But not all.

I think it wonderful
That someday
They will tell you
What I now do.

I can’t tell you
How I got here.
My life is not a story
With plot and design.

It’s not that simple.