Final Hook (5)

They say suicide is always an option
parked out past the last stop sign
a hard-line kind of freedom
at the edge of the structure

But every time I hit that thought
I walk it backwards
step by step
till the choice I make is smaller
and I’m still here
bruised
but kept

So if you hear me say it softly
late at night when sleep won’t land
“it’s an option” doesn’t mean
I’m ready to follow that command

It just means I’m not a prisoner
I’ve still got moves left on this square
and tonight I’m choosing
the ugly miracle of staying
one more chord