Have You Ever Felt

Have you ever felt
like a caged bird
in mournful anticipation
of the beauty of all
you are unable to grasp
so close
to that sweet taste
of endless freedom
beyond the bars
that hold you back

Have you ever felt
the strength of a moment
slipping away
as you fight
with reckless effort
those temptations
that sneer
in utter disregard
as the shameless objects
of your desire

Have you ever felt
blinded by the tears
of the unrealized potential
time has stolen away
until suddenly one day
like the shepherd looking skyward
you see far away
that little light
illuminating your sight
through the cold dark

~  Kevin Harvey