The Compass and The Instructor

The Compass

The compass was a gift from God
But the needle refused to stay still
I'd walk three miles through deepest bog
Trying to follow its will

Today is a day we go North!
Needle held a steady line
Next day was East. I went forth
Then it showed South for a time

Occasionally, I would stop
Watch my compass circle round
Dive and dance and spin and drop
Sometimes point at the ground

While stationary I would panic
"I'm not going where I'm supposed to be"
While walking I'd grow manic
Following the whims of a force I could not see


I know not where I'm being led
I will walk through wind sun and shade
Following the smallest crumbs of bread
To feel that some progress has been made

The Instructor

The instructor, they took my hand

Adjusted the grip on my waist

Pushed my feet out slightly

Gave three instructions to my face

I had plenty of questions

But knew I was not allowed to ask

It was my job to learn

This oh-so-difficult task

The instructor was powerful

But gentle in their touch

I followed where they led

And did not question. Much.

Each time I tried, the same reply

Was whispered in my ear

Do not forget, my dear

I am the instructor here

In awe, I fell silent

Until another question would arise

This happened time and time again

Until, to my surprise

I finally lost myself in the dance. And then, for just a little while

We danced together as a pair, and I saw the instructor smile