What is Life

Your alarm clock rings, another Monday dawn.

The coffee's brewed, already running late,

The traffic's backed up for miles ahead.

Is this the life that you're meant to live?

What is life, the bills piled by your door?

What is life, the texts you can't ignore?

What is life, the coffee that you spilled?

What is life, the emptiness that you feel?

You pray to God when darkness falls,

You trust in science, to explain it all.

Faith and reason fighting for control.

Is this the life for your fractured soul?

What is life, the words you can't take back?

What is life, the courage that you lack?

What is life, the secrets that you keep?

What is life, the nights you cannot sleep?

Mirror stares back, another mask you wear,

Exhausted from the person you portray.

Compliments that make you feel more fake.

Is this the life you have to play?

What is life, the doubt that keeps you up?

What is life, the faith that fills your cup?

What is life, the story you leave untold?

What is life, the courage to grow old?

Your trophy home, full garage overflows,

Your designer labels, status symbols show.

Stepping over others on the ladder up.

Is this the life that will never be enough?

What is life, the sunset's fading light?

What is life, the music in your soul?

What is life, the photos on your wall?

What is life, the memories you make?

Three AM, wide awake again,

Wondering if your story matters in the end.

The wrinkles forming, 'round your eyes,

The wisdom in what you can't rationalize.

Alan Simpson