unexpected circumstance

not that you expect life to be
straightforward or predictable,
yet the unexpected is upon you
before you know it,
taking captive the moment
for however long.

indelible instances from years past,
vivid memories - empty seat still warm -,
reflect where you are now
perhaps still setting the course
determining the path you tread,
dispel youthful fancy of being in control.

conversation takes surprising direction,
something happens but you don't react as anticipated,
opportunity comes out of the blue,
meet someone from the past or new,
abrupt ends come as new vistas open.

always shaping the way you go,
forming who you're becoming
always becoming,
too quick to wish life was different,
knowing anything else would be poorer
or not even life at all.