Don't Look Back

I first read the following poem six years ago, shortly after being Royally Dumped by a stupid boy for my then "best friend."

In the midst of my depression, anger and woe, my dad gave me a little pocket-sized book with the poem "Don't Look Back" and illustrations by Mary Engelbreit. It has stuck with me--especially the last stanza, which has become a mantra to me. I know I've quoted it to people before.

Here it is:

As you travel through life there are always those times
When decisions just have to be made;
When the choices are hard, and solutions seem scarce
And the rain seems to soak your parade!

There are some situations where all you can do
Ss to simply let go and move on,
Gather courage together and choose a direction
That carries you toward a new dawn.

So pack up your troubles and take a step forward
The process of change can be tough
But think about all the excitement ahead
If you can be stalwart enough!

There could be adventures you never imagined
Just waiting around the next bend
And wishes and dreams just about to come true
In ways you can't yet comprehend!

Perhaps you'll find friendships that spring from new interests
As you challenge your status quo
And learn there are so many options in life,
And so many ways you can grow!

Perhaps you'll go places you never expected
And see things that you've never seen
Or travel to fabulous, faraway worlds
And wonderful spots in between!

Perhaps you'll find warmth and affection and caring --
A "somebody special" who's there
To help you stay centered and listen with interest
To stories and feelings you share.

Perhaps you'll find comfort in knowing your friends
Are supportive of all that you do
And believe that whatever decisions you make,
They'll be the right choices for you!

So keep putting one foot in front of the other
And taking your life day by day.
There's a brighter tomorrow that's just down the road.
Don't look back! You're not going that way!

~ Mary Engelbreit



I have this poster in my room at Kathy and Derek's house. It shows a little gal walking on her life path. The sign post has two signs--one says, "Your Life," and the other, "No Longer an Option." Guess which path she's taking?

So now, I must figure out what is No Longer An Option for myself.



In the meantime:


Cheers,






P.S. Mary's my gal--I love this one!