Stand Clear - Jayrely Bautista (UHS Runner - Up)

The platform is bustling

pushing, shoving

yet his feet stay planted.

No train at any station could lead him where he wants to go.

The departure board dim,

text flashing,

but he’s not looking.

People come and people go,

but he’s unmoving.

He sure would like to move,

to leave this life behind

But every passing train reminds him what he’s lost.

The platform shakes with another chance.

The roar from the track muffled by the roar in his head.

Wishing the wind would blow him towards the doors,

he’s still unmoving.

As the doors close he does as the announcement asks,

and stands clear of the closing doors.