Tethered

Many people that I know
Travel quite a bit.
I’m envious of all their trips,
I’m sorry to admit.

Not everyone can up and go.
You must be unencumbered;
And those of us they leave behind
Have those free souls outnumbered.

The reasons why we stay at home
Are varied and prosaic.
If every reason were a tile,
They’d make a great mosaic.

Some folks can’t afford the time;
They’re soldered to their work.
Others do not have the cash;
Financial woes do lurk.

There are those afraid to fly –
With such intimidation,
Not a thing will change their minds,
Despite the destination.

Some exist with means and time
But lacking the desire,
Certain that no place but home
Has something to admire.

Many people aren’t free
From family obligations,
Often taking care of sick
Or elderly relations.

Though we’ve all had storms in life
And traumas we have weathered,
Many of us must accept
That we are simply tethered.

There may be an end in sight
Or it may last forever,
Thus we must attempt to maximize
Every endeavor.

If we loosen up the ropes
And let the tension slack,
We may float a little bit
Before we get pulled back.