Separate Universe

A story of parallel lives

24 lines

I look into the mirror and see what might have been,
My other self, who speaks a language which I never learned.
Smiling, laughing, aged about eighteen,
Eyes, shining bright and clear, no frown lines, unconcerned.

Somewhere, in a different realm, there is another me,
Who missed the test, the chance – the train.
She jumped on board. That was the moment we split, and she was free.
I was left alone, in my world, to live a life of pain.

I’ve watched her grow into a wife and mother.
A woman of standing in her chosen field.
Whilst I remain—Jobless, childless, the other
Me, in this realm behind the shield.

She demands respect from all her peers.
All eyes upon her in the room.
And yet, still finds time to wipe away the tears
Of those children in the background of the Zoom.

Whilst I keep the peace and calm this man.
Whose love is akin to iron bars.
His fiery temper roars. I do what I can,
To hide and cover these hidden scars.

She walks a path I’ll never know,
With poise and grace, I don’t possess.
Two people, worlds apart, in a place I cannot go.
But this one is mine—I am still me.

Written for Philosophical Musings
Prompt : Multiverse