Unhindered

         I wrench my leg forward with all my strength, pulling my load further another inch, a writhing mass of memories kept alive by my consuming regret. With each step forward the tug from behind forces me to look around and gaze upon all my mistakes, all my follies, grouped together and readily accessible for anyone to realize how worthless I really am. Just a pockmark on the face of society and in all the lives near me. Another step and, looking back once more with a contemptuous stare, the thought slowly appears on my mind-I could be free. I could do it. If I cut loose this load, left it behind, what would it be like? I make up my mind, knowing it is this choice or death; I let go. I take a step forward and stumble a little, now unhindered by anything. I continue to take stride after stride that just moments before had seemed impossible. As my past shrinks steadily behind me I raise my face to the future, boundless potential glistening in my eyes, and the words flutter across my lips- "Here I come."