The Banks of The River Styx

Note from the author: This poem was inspired by recent conversations regarding loss, grief and choice. It was created to spark conversation and enable people to talk about this taboo subject on the fringes of the mental health epidemic we are facing.

If you are struggling, in need of help and need someone to talk to, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 (In Australia), 1-800-273-8255 (USA), 0800 689 5652 ( AssistLine UK)

Life was to flash before my eyes,

But that did not happen for me,

Instead, I got glimpses of a life meant to be,

Life and fate,

Closely intertwined,

Their bonds running deep,

Illuminating the banks of the River Styx.

But I made my choice,

And now, they’re no longer mine.

Even if I wanted to, there is no path back for me.

Darkness gathered,

A harbinger of what is to come,

Like a heavy fog, my choice appeared to me,

My desire to be free of fate,

She taunted me,

She teased, and tempted me back,

She showed me wealth, love, and hope,

A life worth living.

I looked towards the sea,

The light fading quickly,

My heart spoke,

There was still time,

Salty and pure waters just out of reach.

But even if I wanted to, there was no path back for me.