In the dark of night I

peek into my pack.

I have stuffed my emotions safely

into my pack.

Among the emotions

I carry anger and hatred in my pack.

They cover my heart and arteries like plaque.

You may be surprised at the contents of my pack.

I look calm, smiling, put together and on track.

I cannot show you what is in my pack.

I have an image to back.

I have an urge to share my pack

without owning what is in my pack.

I share my pack

for causes that give me no flak.

My pack and I traveled a lonely path.

I realize now that lashing out at others

is not in my highest good.

I am now aware of the contents of my pack.

Learning to feel and express my emotions cleanly

without stuffing them in the pack.

Such a burden I used to carry in my pack.

I no longer travel a lonely path.

I now travel with a much lighter pack.

Copyright . 2011 by Shervin Hojat