 |
 |
|
| SITE MENU |
| - About this site |
| - About Gary |
| - Published Books |
| - Sample Poems |
| - Site Map |
| - Contact Us |
| - Links to all sites |
Over the space
of several weeks
I have learned
two important lessons.
On the first occasion,
I was chatting
with friends
at a local club.
The topic
of what I will do
when I retire
was being discussed.
I indicated
an interest
in learning
about alternative healing.
A male friend
with strong views
on the subject
wanted to express
his opinion.
I was aware
of his opposition
and asked
that we agree
to differ.
The male friend
continued
to make his point.
I pleaded
with him
to let it go,
he refused.
For the next
15 minutes or so,
he ranted
and raved,
vehemently degrading
my idea.
I had
to physically
turn away
to minimise
the impact
of his outburst.
I noted that
on previous occasions,
I would have
got up,
left,
and never returned.
In time,
my friend
had finished
his tirade of abuse.
I waited
a few minutes
and then thanked him
for teaching me
a very valuable lesson.
Never again,
would I share
any of my ideas
with him.
For even though
I pleaded with him
not to belittle
my idea,
he ignored me.
What is
the lesson,
you ask?
Be aware
of your environment,
be aware
of your audience,
choose your topic
carefully.
Be prepared
not to discuss
your passion,
if the audience
is not receptive.
It is
a sad state,
for I know
my relationship
with his man
will never
be the same.
The other lesson
comes through
my passion
for writing.
At this time,
I aim to write
at least one poem
every day.
Whenever I get
the inspiration
and the chance,
you will see me
typing or writing away.
On this occasion,
I had typed
a poem
on a computer.
I took
the opportunity
to print it out.
Quickly distracted,
I neglected
to collect
the poem
from the printer.
Many days later,
I discovered
my poem
adorning
the notice board
at my workplace.
It was never
my intention
to put it there,
and it did cause
some embarrassment.
I learned
a valuable lesson
in this slip-up.
I will
choose carefully,
where and when
I print
what I write.
I have
seized back control
of my ideas
and removed
the potential
for another mishap.
To the person
wanting to ridicule,
thank you.
For you have
taught me,
a very valuable lesson.
These two situations
did not turn out
amicably.
If anything,
I have adjusted
my actions
and openness.
It is sad
to know
that one’s creative ideas
cannot be shared openly
and harmoniously.
I hope
that our society
will soon recognise
the value of creative ideas.
Each of us
will then be able
to share
what we know,
what we think,
and what we want.
A liberating
thought,
a distinct
possibility.
I
look forward
to that day.
© Gary Dodd 2006
Sample Poems
Home
|
|
 |