Awakening

Drifting, misappropriated,
my lips spoke trivialities,
my hapless heart was inarticulate.

Fearfully I fumbled through 
each day, frittering opportunities, 
fervently hoping they wouldn't pick me.

A wraith within a wraith, I flittered by 
commitment like a man without a plan; 
I only knew the pleasures of avoidance, 

'til I was pushed into the present by
a crushing ultimatum, compelling me 
to find my way alone, now I greet 
each morning with a smile.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2008

Poem

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Brown Avatar
August 13, 2010 at 5:24 AM
I am feeling the urge to go back and read poetry from earlier writing of my favorite poets today and this is the one I opened of yours Keith. I truly enjoyed reading it today and it is one of your best. Love, Carol
Meyer Avatar
December 30, 2008 at 1:25 PM
What a wonderful poem to read. Sometimes an ultimatum is what we need to see beyond avoidance and denial. When your bedroom window faces east, it is hard to be grumpy in the beautiful morning display of hope. ~J~
Mac Donald Avatar
December 29, 2008 at 5:33 AM
Oh my, Keith, it seems as though your 'crushing ultimatun' was the right choice for you. When one can "greet each morning with a smile" t'would seem to be the right track for you. Amazing, "the pleasures of avoidance"! I'd better stop before I make quotes of the entire piece!:) Extremely well done..will certainly tug at the hearts and minds of many. Wishing for your New Year, health, love, joy, and that you'll maintain this beautiful sense of peace! God bless you and yours. Love, Mikki
L Avatar
December 29, 2008 at 3:14 AM
great poem ....Abe
Reynolds Avatar
December 28, 2008 at 4:57 PM
Ah, you sound just like my husband! lol Exactly. sometimes it is only a good solid push that'll do the trick. good for you...and like John said, and I said before - you are my fave new soup poet! Love your stuff, Kristin
Heck Avatar
December 28, 2008 at 2:16 PM
Dear Keith - you are by far one of the best new(er) poets on this site! Diverse, introspective, imaginative and a delight to read and appreciate. Hope to see alot more of you come 2009! Wishing you and your loved ones a Happy & Joyous New Year! Peace always, John
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