Anxious dread
wells up
inside his chest,

As he anticipates
Its arrival.

He wonders

Will it accept him?
Will it reject him?
Will he be safe?

He wonders

Who is he
That he is ready
For such a time
As this?

What is he
That he could
Even prepare
For this outcome?

With hesitancy,
He takes a step
Toward his future.

He knows
They watch
They listen

He knows
There is no
Escape

As if he is a fish
In a glass bowl

He sees the outside
He sees freedom

And they see him
Trapped
Separated

He wonders

Is there a way out?