On A Traveler's Good-Bye Poem by Nicole Anne Sia

How does the traveler say a 'good-bye',
When along the road she stumbles upon
The backpack of nostalgia and of sighs
She ought to trudge with by the break of dawn?

How does the traveler bid a 'farewell'
To the path she has forged for years?
When its trails were borne with stories to tell;
Some be in laughter, and some be in tears.

Why does the traveler leave from the hearth -
The flames she set blazing for quite a long time?
Perhaps the lumber dealt with was at dearth -
She kindled some sparks, but little did shine.
Or perhaps she found other timber's worth -
Better aflame, easier to refine.
Yet she is not to blame: the 'call' brought forth
The chance of better life, of better climb.

Now, when is it due, to bid an 'adieu'?
Would 'prior', 'during', or 'after' be good?
This riddle of voyage may sound astute,
For either of these are best to conclude.
'Farewell' connotes an end to one's journey -
A wish of leaving a place at its prime.
This is only done when one is ready
To discontinue attachments aligned.

But, does a mere 'good-bye' mean 'to forget':
Such adventures one has been through before?
Certainly not; it should only offset
The past from the present she would explore.
The traveler still carries remembrance -
Although such is but kept in one's keen mind.
This heart-felt journeying is later enhanced
By a recall of moments one may find.

So, how does a traveler bid 'adieu'?
She assures the place equipped of its needs;
Setting one's mind as to what she'd pursue;
She reminisces memories' seeds.
She walks off with little hesitation;
Knowing then and there: leaving is a must.
Looking back once more, a sensation
Of reassurance she has yet to trust.

As a traveler's voyage comes to end,
As one's fair ship sets out to sail again,
May the calm tides favor what she intends
And sojourn with safety, goals be obtained.

With high hopes, the traveler left with pride:
Allowing what's destined be the one guide.
With one final look, she's seen, satisfied,
Fitting to ultimately bid 'good-bye'.