Should I move forward or step back?
The path behind is familiar, comfortable.
The path ahead is uncertain, exciting.
Forward or back?
Either way
No guarantee of happiness
No guarantee of good health
No guarantee to prosper
Forward or back?
Either way
I'll still be me
I'll still have the same issues
I'll still have the same desires
Forward or back?
How to decide!
My choice?
Stand here
Mid-step
And think more about what it means
To move forward or back.
About the Creator
Julie Lacksonen
Julie has been a music teacher at a public school in Arizona since 1987. She enjoys writing, reading, walking, swimming, and spending time with family.
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📢 Raise Your Voice Thread: 01/08/2026
Our “Raise Your Voice Threads” are hosted most alternating Thursdays at 12PM ET to offer creators more avenues to uncover exceptional stories on Vocal. As we are continuously searching for fresh creators and inspiring stories, this thread provides an opportunity to exchange and discuss the stories that have moved and motivated us on Vocal.
By Raise Your Voice by Vocal7 days ago in Resources
Comments (5)
Always forward, but using resources from the past as that helps us appreciate what we’ve been through and what road we had to conquer. Thought-provoking, yet simple poem. An essence of life.
Great analogy for life, wonderful words
I can relate. I can be decisive myself.
Forward, always forward.
Oh, such a thought provoking piece! I don't even know my own answers to those questions. Great response to the prompt :)