Final Exam

Thirty-five years ago I was asked could I pass the test.

A microdot caused a big bang in my brain and the explosion
        brought forth a universe of  awareness.
Protons, neutrons and electrons fused and fizzled.
Atoms and molecules formed new elements of perception.

I journeyed many times in the next couple years.
Each trip presented an advance to existence.
Inner space and outer space were explored.

From roof tops to sandy beaches I experienced dawns early light
       or lost in the cosmos studying stars at night.
I saw the moon’s glow transform into a galactic rainbow.
I heard colors sing with life and saw the sounds music float
       like leaves on the autumn wind..

The earth embraced me when I rolled on the ground cradled in
       the gentle clutch by leaves of grass.
I listened to trees speak from their roots, trunks, leaves and branches
raising arms in the air saying a prayer to heaven,
       we are one.

I dove into lakes, rivers and oceans where the waters welcomed me
        our molecules merged, cleansed my soul and told me,
             they had been waiting for me to arrive.

Time and space were only measurements.
Dimensions collapsed folding in on each other.                                          
Straight lines changed to waves, angles began to gently curve.
Black and white faded to gray
                                                      and then to color.
Friendship and love between men and women became individual
                               and universal.
I found unity in the physical and spiritual, barriers of separation
were only an illusion caused by the delusion
                                                                                 of reality.

I realized I did not need to take any trips to open up my mind,
         the answers I sought had been within me all the time.
I passed the test, graduated without a degree or diploma and gone
         further than most.
I settled down found a soul-mate, a wife, and raised a child.

My opinions, experience and observations are now expressed
       through stories and poems.
The awareness I gained from taking the test had prepared
       me for my next quest, to continue on and go
                                                                                       beyond.