Speaking less than
we listen, talking
only to fill
silence,
we misinterpret
misunderstandings.
Never saying
what we mean,
meaning less and
less and less
until
we no longer
understand. Nor
do we try.
01/30/2018 j.g.l.
It begins with an idea, a promise, or
pledge, to a person, a concept, and
yourself.
Commitment comes in many forms
as we accept invitations, overtures,
or challenges.
Commitment requires adherence to
your beliefs and compliance with
forces which, by their very nature,
could upset the balance.
The outcome is never certain.
Many times, best-laid plans are
subject to interruption or indifference.
Your fortitude and intention are not
always enough.
Commitment takes concern,
commitment takes courage;
commitment takes commitment.
Then it takes trust.
01/29/2019 j.g.l.
you must first
come daylight
wipe fingerprints
from your lens
leftover pain
from yesterday
or darker nights
when you
had to know
what time it was
your vision
will be clearer
today
© 2021 j.g. lewis
To read poetry is to escape from the depths and doldrums of everyday life and to take a place among words and emotions that make life bearable.
I carry with me in my bag, everyday, a book or volume of poetry; a purposeful exercise that allows me to step away from boredom or the corporate bullshit that all-too-frequently envelopes my day.
Poetry, whether I’m reading or writing, grounds me.
It allows me to be who I am.
It allows me to see who I am.
It allows me to take some time and make it mine.
Often I don’t get enough time, but a few lines or stanzas of a poem is enough to reflect on where I am, or deflect the attitudes or algorithms that attempt to corrupt my humanity.
Poetry is a reason to be; poetry is a reason to see the world and wonder of where we are.
01/27/2019 j.g.l.
only a shadow
only the light
only confusion
only a night
only a breath
only my own
only a shadow
only alone
01/26/2021 j.g.l.