Keep Walking

I walk a path on an empty street
No shoes, just my bare feet

It pricks me hard, a bloody thorn
I pull it off and keep walking on.

Another prick; not this again!
Just move along and ignore the pain.

I walk a mile, I walk a few
Some old thorns, some new

I rest a bit, I close my eyes.
Only to open to a big surprise!

Is this real or is it a ruse?
In front of me, is a pair of shoes!

I look around, I try to find,
Who was it? Someone so kind.

My walk is better, and although fine,
The shoes feel different as they aren't mine.

A fork ahead, a choice in sight
I chose left, but was it right?

I walk some more, a bit I roam,
I find some tools and find some foam.

It will hide them well, all that bruise.
I can now make them; my shoes!

I make myself, a lovely pair
With lots of love and utmost care.

I walk again, but hear a sound
It takes all my might, but I turn around

I see you walk, I see you cry
I see you falter, I see you try

I look at you, I feel the pain
This journey has been quite insane!

You look at me, full of despair
I nod my head and pass my pair.

Those damn new shoes, I shall miss.
But I bid you well and tell you this,

It's your path, you have to choose.
But remember,
There may be thorns, but also shoes.

Dedicated to International Women's Day 2021.