Why

At seventeen I should be celebrating
Having my first sip of champagne
But as luck would have it I am standing on a ledge

Me thinking this will be over soon
Mere seconds from the eighteen floor to peace
My mind having tormented me for years I am ready

Now it speaks to me in soft and tender tones
“Life has become too unbearable just take the plunge”
“You are ready for this it is the only way out”

As I wriggle closer to the edge I feel a sense of calm acceptance
Then in my head I hear the word “Why” which becomes “Why stay”
And in that moment the answer comes to me

For all that is left undone
For all the words not spoken
For all those that would grieve