Self-Portrait as the State of Israel

This was initially done as a project for a writing course - having to envision ourselves as 'something not human' - that being said, there are a great deal of metaphors in this.

Starting with a hidden principle
to be strong, yet small,
a country surrounded
by fearless enemies -
'Everybody is out to get me.'

There is one who is an ally,
the father in my life,
who supports me,
despite criticism
from all over.

Constantly besieged by war and adversary,
my spirit survives to victory.

Reviews

[emmajoy]

History has shown the long and ancient journey your people have had to find a place of their own. And, having found what they consider to be just that, it's defended with every shred of body and spirit. Maybe sometimes too much but, that's what humans do in order to survive. They lost millions in the past, they want to protect future generations. Please, dear Lord, they and their enemies reach a peaceful understanding.. soon; can never be too soon. Life is precious whether for a single being or an entire race, survival is the ultimate aim, surely.

[Ruth]

Interesting write Judy...
Whatever is happening, maybe the soul can over ride the ugliness of it all...
Powerful love, very powerful...
x

[Coyote Poetry]

A powerful poem for the country of Israel. Israel had advance in many areas. They have become a war machine. I hope the sheep don't become the wolf. In a eye for a eye world. No-one will win. Sometime better to listen and bow than to raise a fist. Israel survived hard times. I hope she don't forget the reason for her birth. Hope. Thank you for sharing the excellent poetry.
Coyote

[RealistMe]

I've been questioning some of the wording. Take the last part, for example. "Constantly besieged by war and adversary." I think you meant to say "adversity" because you're talking about overcoming trials and tribulations. This is what I would say:

"Starting with a hidden principle
to be a strong yet small
country, surrounded
by fearless enemies -
'Everybody is out to get me.'

There is only one ally.
The father in my life,
who supports me,
despite criticism
from everyone.

Constantly besieged by war and adversity,
my spirit succeeds in victory."

[Judy]

Thanks for your comments - I have to think about it - while it is true what you say - I am paralleling a lot of this to the dichotomous relationship I had with my parents

[RealistMe]

Oh okay. You're welcome.

[Vidya Bacchus]

It must be hard to live in a country where war is a constant and yet people accept it as the norm.You have written a thought provoking poem :)

[Judy]

I actually live in the states - but I am a Zionist and have always grown up with a passion for the state of Israel and a hope to go back

[Vidya Bacchus]

Yes i know you don't live in Israel lol.I meant in general.It must be a beautiful country anyway.:)

[Judy]

It is a gorgeous country on a multitude of levels - and because those who are Zionists are so much more intense than patriotic people it is even more profound

[Vidya Bacchus]

You must really love and appreciate it.Your words say so:)