The Hard Road

The hard road is all that I know
It is my station in life to travel its length
No matter how short or far that may be
It is all that I know, all that I need

I have not been blessed with a life of comfort
But with one of struggle and at times deep sadness
I am not complaining, just expressing my reality
It's a hard road, not a bad road, just my road

Some folks look at their lives as an adventure
Mine has been more like a roller coaster ride
At times fun, at others purely terrifying
I am not much different than most, it's just the road

My road is the hard road, yours' may differ
I would not have it any other way
I am content most of the time
For even the hard road has its blessings


The fact I've had to work for everything
Little or nothing handed to me, only more hard work
Developed in me, character and strength
An easier or different path could not provide

The hard road is a road of loneliness
Sometimes by choice, other times not
Solitary by its nature and by my needs
Often I'm lonely but never really alone

This hard road is traveled by many, few to its end
I do not complain about this hard road
My quest is demanding
It requires perseverance and trust

My experiences have taught me many things
The friends along the way, touch me today
Their words, laughter and love, lighten my burden
They provide the inspiration and strength to go on

I cannot see the end of this hard road
Perhaps it lies right around the next bend
Perchance there are many miles to go
The constant thing is, the road will be hard

No whining, although at times driven to my knees
The weight of life at times, heavier than I can bear
Tears of frustration, have adorned my cheeks
Faith and eternal hope help me move onward

The hard road has been a good road but I am limited
Not one I read about in a book rather personal and real
I have nothing to compare it to, only the words of others
My own interpretations no matter are flawed and weak


This road I walk was carved for me to walk
It is hard by design and in it's purpose
The easier softer way does not challenge me
It has always left me unfulfilled and wanting

Where does this hard road lead you may ask?
The honest answer is that I do not know
I walk it blindly led by faith and hope
The hope that I may meet you along its way