Taste of Ashes

I've won now. I've won it all. I've made those who brought me here proud. And you've accepted me. Grudgingly, I am given a place. You could no longer deny my excellence.

But those around me aren't comfortable. I burn too bright, and they watch my flames with wary eyes. I am here to light the path, our path. I welcome that they stand next to me. My light's purpose is not to blind them. But they are blind. Can they not see we wait for the same dawn?

Can they not see I mean them no harm?

I want to be one of them again, but their eyes hold me paralyzed, and my pride trips my feet. I want to go back to the way things were.

Oh, that the victory I thought would be so sweet, tastes of ashes.