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Expectations and Perspective
I lie still.
Part of the formless blackness.
Hidden by the waterfall.
The wall pouring in front of me,
Between me and the rest of the world.
I can see you peering in curiously,
just as I probably did, further back than I remember.
My darkness keeps me invisible.
This is not a new scenario.
Don't be narcissistic--
Many before you have stumbled upon this cave.
Each time is the same.
It starts with excitement,
The cave's mysterious allure beckkons to explorers.
The question is, will they answer its call?
They begin formulating a plan to get inside.
It quickly becomes clear that it is a treacherous endeavor
The freezing, rushing water flows forcefully
Continuously beating down onto jagged rocks.
A careful survey reveals it is possible, with great effort
But how strong is the compulsion?
One must choose this, or the easy, well-marked trail.
They always opt for the beaten path
to some well-lit caves, complete with gift shop.
Nothing could express the shock I felt
at seeing you begin yuor cautious attempt
and not quickly change your mind.
Squeezing between two boulders, climbing up the next,
I know you'll turn back at the almost solid wall.
I am stunned when you push through
Now, in equal light, we truly see each other.
Eye contact, with intensity like the absent sun.
