as i walk through the forest trees bend in and whisper "where are you going little girl---turn back, this way is not for you." the freedom of the leaves is oppressing. scattered along my invisible path rocks hurl words "listen to your elders, the ancient trees. young fawn, they know better than you." i walk on careful not to step on them with the cool breeze smothering me. if i heeded my elders i would not be in this world. "you cannot do it you cannot do it" i can. and will. you just watch. head held high, i shut out the wind--if only i could silence the little voice deep inside. "turn back, i'm afraid of the dark"