Goodbye

The hour draws near.
Twelve chimes sound loud and clear.
I leave the window
for the cloaked men.

The hard snap of steel around my wrists,
its cold touch searing.
My final request obeyed,
my eyes are allowed freedom.

A peaceful blue sky greets me
a gentle breeze brings yellow leaves
and flower petals
the brilliant sun warms my cold feet.
I could not have chosen a better day.

I have been treated well,
despite my destiny.
I cry no anger,
I cry no sadness,
yet others do...
Why?

Who is to decide, I wonder,
if I live or die?
Is it me?
My friends?
My enemies?

The fate of those
who are to live or die
is up to the human judge.
This is the way,
in this world of rules.

So weep not,
my friends,
my lovers,
my teachers,
my students.

When I leave you,
I am free,
at last.