* Inspired by,
"The true measure of a man is not how he behaves in moments of comfort
and convenience, but how he stands at times of controversy and challenges."
-Martin Luther King Jr.
Stranded in society
Surrounded by hypocrisy;
Looking for material wealth
Lost in "mental health".
Answers came
Questions in vain..
The truth
Was something else.
Shrugging off the chains
Shedding my understandings;
Filling my backpack
Emptying my mind.
For years I traveled
Unlearning the learned;
For days I'd walk,
Not regretting a mile.
Food was scarce
Opportunity was plentiful;
Over time it became easy,
Understanding imbued from obscurity.
I shed my life
To be reborn;
Finding my answers
No longer forlorn.
Author notes
~Or about something that has changed your perspective on the world or the people around you.
It was not an easy thing to do, but like many others I am sure being fed up with the daily routines and expectations of others, looking for my answers in a system made by man; I left everything behind, nay... not only left but abandoned never to be seen again. Backpack was my home, roads and mountains my playgrounds. I came to new understandings of myself, others, and my purpose in life. Things were not easy, I had no money, knew nobody in strange lands. But in times of challenge, the measure of a true man could be found. I discovered this quote many years later, but it helped me reflect in great ways. Thank you for inspiring me to write in this contest, it brought the quote to mind.
-Cheers
A contest entry
- Tied My Hands by A.N. Divine.
550 points, ended July 13, 2008, 11 entries
Bronze trophy winner
• next poem in this contest, remove from contest
Comments
1 - 5 of 5
-
I appreciate that you read the rules very throughly.
I like the way you speak, your voice is very relevant. -
This is an amazing, well-written poem!
"Answers came
Questions in vain..
The truth
Was something else"
That stood out most in my mind, and is probably my favorite part... though honestly, they all stand out in some way. The flow was smooth the whole way through, and the wording was...flawless.
Inspiring and heartfelt, this is a beautiful piece.
Well done, keep writing, and best of luck in your contest! -
amazing. it is inspiring. you left all you had and all you new, and what you seemed to have found was yourself.beautiful flow and very heartfelt
-
Well done. You could tell it came from the reality of which you spoke. Your flow and content were good and all in all I think you have a good chance in the contest. Pen on...
-
Fanfeckintastic!
I love this! I so know that being so consumed then fiunding something else like travel to occupy your mind!! Amazing!
Adding your comment:
1 - 5 of 5
