Means and Extremes

We wake up as adults unsure how we did it.

From bare minimum to extreme,

Hobgoblins of cultural lore

Bind youngsters in uncertainty,

Self-doubt, unforgiven and more.

But given time and chance to love,

One learns best gifts come from above.

When warmth dresses up in daily dues,

Trust earned a worthy life imbues.

With years, the child looks back to grin

At whimseys that made the head spin.

Glad faces light up like sunbeams.

Slices of wisdom fill ones dreams.

Great truths convey in endless form.

Great friends ensure a happy life.

Great loves, great children, great wife --

Such joyful shared moments adorn.

Armor of faith shields injured heart.

Gentle hugs give the breath a start.

Wisdom points toward the glowing star

Guiding the way to heaven afar.

Each heartbeat ferries a blessing,

Loneliness is lost love confessing.

The acrosses help clue the downs.

Frowns are smiles turned upsidedown.

Author's Note

Happiness is a conscious choice

Reviews

[Sophie B.]

This poem is something people of all ages can relate to. It brings warmth but with truth. Finding happiness in what you have instead of seeking for something more, is something that many people struggle with. The poem is eloquent and beautiful. If your other poems are as good as this one, then you’re bound to go somewhere if you want to take the publishing route. The rhyme is very well done, however in the fourth stanza and the last two lines, you divert from your original rhyme scheme. The rhythm of the poem is great but this tiny change might make it even better. That’s the only constructive criticism I have to offer.
-Sophie B.

[bigfootprint]

Thank you Sophie B. You are very kind and sensitive. I have often told my own children these truisms. Sometimes they listened. I can't believe you noticed the deviation in the penultimate verse -- very observant of you. PS I spend my career in editing for publication.

[George David Hope]

Really enjoyed this poem. It's exactly what I tell my daughter all the time. Love your parents, family and friends, make memories and you'll always be happy in what ever you do in life. Thanks for sharing

[Chris Shaw]

This is a well crafted poem which was a delightful read, full of wisdom. Some lovely lines. Frowns are smiles turned upside down really did make this reader smile. Final stanza is superb.

Chris

[bigfootprint]

So pleased you enjoyed the piece.

[bigfootprint]

You George, and you Chris make the WritersCafe a fine place to be and be seen. We can find great truths in everything we see and touch, but we have to be receptive to them. Thanks for the kind words to both of you