Introductions are like a rugged back road
in Maine,
you’ve driven it before,
but each time the pavement is old
and potholes plenty
This ride is awkward and bumpy
These beginnings deemed necessary
for even the smoothest of stones started out rough

But once you cross the border from Maine
to New Hampshire
the road evens out, the pavement a little newer,
travel becomes smoother and the ride
comes naturally
as you make your way home

Now begins the real journey:
every road sign is an event,
every exit a problem,
and every detour the compromise

You can see the destination approaching,
scenery becoming familiar.
You’ve driven this homestretch
a million times before,
but this time you drive it together