The Red Bridge - Poem by Liilia Talts Morrison

I saw a bridge meant to be crossed
The path to paradise
In shiny lacquered red it glowed
With ancient myths embossed

It beckoned me with jewels rare
Compassion for all men
Humility in word and deed
And moderation's care

The ferns stood still expectantly
Tall bamboos held their peace
Small shrubs and rocks watched as I stood
And urged me eagerly

I never crossed that crimson bridge
But rather chose to dwell
In caves of excess, brashness, self
On evil mountain's ridge

At night when haunting vapors float
Past an unfeeling moon
Regrets begin to cloud my mind
And whimpers choke my throat

We only get one chance in life
To enter that green glen
And cross the fairest of all spans
Beyond which there's no strife

I saw the bridge meant to be crossed
The path to paradise
In shiny lacquered red it glowed
With ancient myths embossed.