I too wanted to run, to live on the fringe of this deteriorating civilization,
Forfeit all my potential to make a lasting difference, to contribute myself in the hopes of reversing our destruction.
Running could still be rationalized. There are many opportunities to help along the road.
I've seen professional travelers fight for visited lands they love as if it were their own,
Here and there a wanderer scatters interactions of love, strength and hope,
Still positive impacts not to be discarded.
But that isn't my dream.
I couldn't wander, knowing that this world has a time limit, knowing that the sway of ignorance is getting stronger and more destructive with each passing day.
I couldn't resign the fate of this planet, in all its magnificence and glory, to the hands of the fallen.
Gaia needs valiant warriors to fight the good fight,
to ward her of these imbeciles and restore what is sacred.
I will still journey amongst the trees
Climb mountains, chase the rising sun.
But unfortunately, for now this planet cannot afford the loss of another guardian,
distracted by the dwindling bounty being stolen by estranged hands
who will never receive the full human experience because they never allowed themselves the gift of humility and awe.