Off the Beaten Track


I had walked the desert road

And stood lost no care for my roots

I lit a cigarette

And stood wiping dust off of my boots

I turned to see a wolf stroll by

Inside me deep he looked then sat down by my side

You have let your courage die he said

Then gave me words to soothe my mind

Use your fears to wet the soul

Tell the world what you see

Don't let fear tie feelings down

That won't set you free

Share with those who understand

A good place you will find

They'll accept your muddy water

And help you turn it into wine

You may not see them in person

But they'll see you just the same

In knowing, they will accept your fears

And do best to offer praise, not shame

It's a place that's good, where the gentle reign

They just want to feel good too

Spite and anger have no place there

Unto yourself be true

You have found somewhere that makes you feel good

And may even change your life

So embrace the spirit within you

This chance you don't get twice

With that the wolf went upon his heels

I stubbed the cigarette out and bid the wolf goodbye

My boots seemed to have a shine on them

And I smiled as I touched the sky.

© Steve Ellis (IntotheBlue) 2012