Home » Poems » L Milton Hankins » On Holding My Tongue

On Holding My Tongue

There comes a time for standing up tall For a belief, fairness, and understanding I know not everyone is like I am, at all, When I am taking off, some folks are landing. I shall walk a mile in someone’s shoes Before making any negative judgement, Because it’s always up to God to choose When all things are under his management. I can’t know how another person feels Even when I try my best to empathize, Sometimes she stands, sometimes kneels, What I think is wrong, is right in her eyes. I don’t have to take a stand on every issue Some things I can simply choose to ignore, If you want to line up, find yourself a queue But, consider what it is you are standing for. What I say may hurt someone badly Of course, that’s not what I would intend If I am opposed, better I walk away sadly Than to lose a friend whom I might offend. ‘Tis best, I do believe, to live and let live Trying to keep the ball in my own court, I know some folks like to be combative So, in those cases, it’s better not to retort. In all things I try to be sensible and relaxed Maintaining a calm attitude of positivity Making up my mind after studying facts, After all, I’m enhancing my own longevity. Written April 2, 2022

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Indiana Shaw

Date: 4/4/2022 4:29:00 PM

I'm a "different folks, different strokes" kinda of person, Milt's, no, two people are the same, and neither should our thoughts, or disagreements be like this on them, the poem is lovely, well balanced, no forcing of the issue here, like a gentle ripple of a stream, it flows, no conflict does indeed enhances one's own longevity, so, may you continue to live long and prosper . . . : )

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/4/2022 7:26:00 PM

Thanks, Indiana. Your well-thought-out, insightful comment on my poem is much appreciated. I'm glad to know you give everyone space to be who they are...on the inside and out.

Caren Krutsinger

Date: 4/4/2022 6:46:00 AM

Let's put this on some billboards and t-shirts and baseball caps " I don’t have to take a stand on every issue"

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/4/2022 8:21:00 AM

Great idea. I think it might get the attention of some folks who seem to wear their deepest thinking on their baseball caps!

Judy Ball

Date: 4/3/2022 9:03:00 AM

Wise words my friend. An excellent way to look at others. God Bless, JB

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/3/2022 9:06:00 AM

Thank you, Judy, for your thoughtful comment on my poem.

Terry Miller

Date: 4/3/2022 2:15:00 AM

Fine words Milton, indeed.

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/3/2022 9:07:00 AM

Thank you so much, Terry, for your complimentary comment.

Caren Krutsinger

Date: 4/2/2022 11:47:00 PM

This is important "consider what it is you are standing for."

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/3/2022 9:23:00 AM

Yes, and I think, too, that we must pick our battles. Deb taught me that.

Valsa George

Date: 4/2/2022 8:33:00 PM

‘Tis best, I do believe, to live and let live Trying to keep the ball in my own court".... The right attitude to life ! Often we are misunderstood and blamed for what we don't intend. Cannot be helped ! Agree with what Gershon has opined !

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/2/2022 8:37:00 PM

Thanks, Valsa. Wow, I never expected such a response to a poem that was essentially written to ME! Well, I suppose most all of us relate, eh?

Gershon Wolf

Date: 4/2/2022 7:43:00 PM

O, I love that last line. So true. By holding our tongues, we live longer and happier lives. Anger -- road to the Devil's door. :) gw

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/2/2022 8:20:00 PM

I really think this is true, gw. Like a good hearty laugh every day extends our life. I believe that, too.

Jeff Kyser

Date: 4/2/2022 7:28:00 PM

my silliness has nothing to you with your good poem, just a mental image I had, lol.

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/2/2022 8:38:00 PM

I haven't read it. Probably on my list for tomorrow!

Jeff Kyser
Date: 4/2/2022 8:35:00 PM

Yeah, about literally holding one’s tongue, just wanted to make sure you didn’t read anything into it, lol. Have a good night!

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/2/2022 8:25:00 PM

I have no idea what you are talking about, Jeff. This poem was actually a reaction to something entirely different, when I realized that I tend to make personal judgments (I call them observations) that are unwarranted because I have no way of knowing how that other person feels. Why? Did you write a poem or something about this? If so, not to worry.

Brandy Nicole

Date: 4/2/2022 6:15:00 PM

"Some things I can simply choose to ignore" Over the years I have learned to look the other way. With age comes wisdom. So true is that statement. Even though it is difficult to hold your tongue at times, it truly is the best choice in many situations. Your thoughts caress softly around me and my heart. My best to you. ~ Brandy

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/2/2022 8:31:00 PM

Well thanks, Brandy. So good to hear from you, to know you read my poem, and that you can relate. I'm glad you liked it.

Jenna Logan

Date: 4/2/2022 5:44:00 PM

You have it all in proper perspective, Milt, and I commend you for being able to hold your tongue and restrain your hand when tempted and taunted beyond limits. I'm aware of the struggle you sometimes have with people who offend you and others with their incessive negativity. I think you're a fine example of one having the right attitude.

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/2/2022 6:01:00 PM

Aw, Jenna, thanks. But, I don't always hold my tongue. I do as long as I can, then, I sometimes let 'er rip. Everything in moderation, I say. I wish I were better at it. Pity the man who gives advice and sometimes doesn't follow it! (chuckling)