Parallel Reflections

Musings on Alternate Realities

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They speak of theories — 
Multiple universes,
A spectrum of creation and mystery.
They say there’s another you,
Living somewhere else,
In an alternate reality.

Whenever a fork appeared on your road,
And your path split in two — 
One road chosen the other left behind— 
Another version of you was born,
To walk the road not taken.

Maybe she has another family,
Different friends,
A different job.
Could you just imagine?

When I first heard this theory,
I was too quick to judge — 
I wanted to be in the better universe,
The one where I’m free,
Where money flows
And no worries surround me. 

“What if I’m happier there?” I thought,
Wouldn’t that be a punch in the gut?
But then I paused.
What if I’m not happier at all?
What if I lack everything
I cherish so much in this life?

So many variants of me may co-exist,
And maybe — just maybe — 
There’s one out there
Who would give anything to be here,
In my world, in my universe.
Perhaps she envies my family,
My friends,
All the precious things I have.
While I, in turn, envy her.

Wouldn’t it be ironic if we met — 
Only to realize
That neither of us is ever
100% satisfied?
Gratitude, gentle souls,
Gratitude.

Stick to your own universe,
Make it brighter if you wish.
But remember to appreciate
Everything within it.
Regrets about the road not taken
Are futile — there’s no guarantee
Of a perfect, pain-free life.