Conversation With My Soul

Dwell not, O soul, on yesterday, 
  on sorrows past and gone -
the sketch you drew so long ago, 
  today may be redrawn.
Dwell not upon tomorrow's wars, 
  nor borrow from their pain -
that energy you need today 
  let not your worries drain.

Dwell not, O heart, on failures past 
  though each one left its scar -
rich lessons you have learned have forged 
  the person you now are.
Dwell not upon your victories, 
  for those shall also pass -
let not your pride construct a shrine 
  to trophies made of glass.

Dwell not, O soul, on others' gain 
  nor envy those with much -
contentment, paired with gratitude, 
  brings peace no wealth can touch.
Dwell not on anyone's downfall 
  as though it lifted up
your own estate; we're siblings all 
  and drink from the same cup.

So what is left, O soul - where does
  the prudent soul pay heed?
Become less of a taker
  always give to those in need.
Which seeds are we to plant
   upon this plot of ground we plow?
Sow seeds of love, be brave, and dwell 
  in the eternal now.


Written 6 Dec 2020
Copyright © | Year Posted 2020

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

12345
Kaur Avatar
August 25, 2023 at 1:19 AM
Amazing!
Blake Avatar
August 6, 2023 at 4:19 AM
There are some wonderful messages in this poem.
Dietrich Avatar
June 29, 2023 at 12:38 PM
I see this has become known as your number one poem at Soup. I hope it won in that marathon when you used it, John. Nice hearing from you recently!!
Kauffman Avatar
February 6, 2023 at 10:11 AM
Dear Friend, once again you have brought to light one of your out of the park poems. So happy I didn't miss this poem on the starting pitcher's list again! How beautiful a conversation between you and your soul. This is not a diatribe or regurgitation of past faults but a gentle conversation founded in compassionate encouragement and blessing. What a blessing to read this again R&R Bro! Blessings! Your batting average is 1000!
Radice Avatar
February 5, 2023 at 3:21 AM
Back to read and congratulate you once again John on this classic of a poem. Cheers - Gary
Toney Avatar
February 4, 2023 at 8:01 PM
John, these pithy, proverbial gems are based on universal truths that have withstood the test of time. The last stanza is precious. A Fav Poem for me. Congratulations on your excellent win on Mile 26 of my 2022 Poetry Marathon. Your support of my contest has contributed to its success, and for that I am very grateful. Poets who have qualified to enter the Qualifiers' FINAL Placement Contest are being notified by Soup Mail.
Ashley Avatar
February 4, 2023 at 6:18 PM
My dearest PoBro, I relish the opportunity to revisit this soul-baring masterwork yet again. The grand majesty of this sumptuous introspection is as rich, impressive and impactful as the first time I read it, if not more so now. A conversation with one's soul and ego is rewarding indeed.. I especially loved "Dwell not upon your victories, for those shall also pass - let not your pride construct a shrine to trophies made of glass." -incredible and "Dwell not, O soul, on others' gain nor envy those with much -contentment, paired with gratitude, brings peace no wealth can touch." - simple superb! Congratulations for your excellent win in Mark's contest. It's such a pleasure to share the podium with you, my inspiring sib. Warmest wishes and hugs.. ~your PS-PS <3
Dietrich Avatar
January 7, 2023 at 12:38 PM
I really like this one for the contest. Gotta take off now. Joe had another fainting spell and I think ER is in order. So I will try to see your other poems later, gator
Watt Avatar
January 28, 2023 at 10:41 PM
Andrea, thanks for helping me out. Hope Joe feels better real soon.
Tor Avatar
September 20, 2022 at 7:19 AM
John your abilities as a writer are reflected in this one of a kind Poem. This is such a well thought truthful theme that captivates the reader as we examine the reflections of the Soul. Great Poetry I have read from you today. Congratulations and sorry so late in seeing. Be blessed my friend...
Tor Avatar
September 20, 2022 at 7:21 AM
PS a favorite John. Also congratulations on this Highest of Honors, well deserved...
Radice Avatar
September 1, 2022 at 12:00 PM
Reads like the classic it is. Superb John. Cheers - Gary
Watt Avatar
September 1, 2022 at 12:39 PM
Coming from a classic poet, that means a great deal to me. Thank you Gary. Cheers ~ John
Peck Avatar
August 24, 2022 at 5:21 PM
John, I don't know how I missed this. You are, indeed, a master poet. Each line is full of meaning. One I especially loved ~ we're siblings all, and drink from the same cup. ~ If only we could each take that to heart. Congratulations! Please keep inspiring us with your beautiful words.
Watt Avatar
September 1, 2022 at 12:37 PM
Aw, thank you Ann for your endearing and uplifting comment. I am always so grateful when someone points out a specific line or phrase they particularly liked. Enjoy your day ~ John
Venkataraman Avatar
June 13, 2022 at 9:12 AM
A lovely poem with a superb meaning to advise one's soul with concern to save it from possible worries and agonies. I can call this poem as an "Ode to the Soul." Kindly entertain us with more poems like this. All the best!
Ray Avatar
April 8, 2022 at 5:47 AM
wisdom of the ages line by line and the culmination of the path to be taken...great execution
Watt Avatar
April 9, 2022 at 10:46 PM
Timothy, thank you for the visit and the kind words
Proxenos Avatar
January 24, 2022 at 11:08 AM
What a deep mesmerizing write, a superb poem about a soul, your soul - you take the reader on a journey but I stopped and paused whilst reading your third stanza, the first 4 lines tell us so much about the poet. If only the more of us and not the less could adopt this attitude you so beautifully write about John my friend ...... 'we're siblings all and drink from the same cup'. Congratulations John, wow what a poem! Hugs and blessings, Jennifer
Watt Avatar
February 27, 2022 at 11:32 PM
As always, dear Jenn, you are so kind, generous, and uplifting in your review... thank you for taking time to do a deep dive into these words and to bless me with your thoughts. Blessings and hugs ~ John
Agustin Avatar
January 11, 2022 at 10:44 PM
Congrats! Thanks for sharing this. God bless you.
Watt Avatar
January 12, 2022 at 10:41 PM
Thank you, and you're welcome Beata. Grace and peace to you ~ John
Allison Avatar
January 8, 2022 at 3:17 PM
such wise words indeed John, many congrats on your win, hugs Jan xx
Watt Avatar
January 12, 2022 at 10:41 PM
Appreciate the lovely way you encourage so many Soup poets, Jan. I'm again honoured to be the recipient of your kind words. Hugs ~ John
Lane Avatar
January 7, 2022 at 11:47 AM
That's quite a serious talk you had with your soul. Congratulations on your winning write, John.
Watt Avatar
January 12, 2022 at 10:40 PM
Indeed, sometimes my soul needs a good talking to, lol. Thanks for your wonderful comment and congrats Lin ~ John
Marcum Wong Avatar
January 7, 2022 at 9:30 AM
Oh John, this outstanding poem has such merit it should be taught in schools to those up-and-coming poets. I marvel at your talent and you need to take a bow. Bravo! A huge Fave my friend! Congratulations on your most worthy win. New year blessings xxoo
Watt Avatar
January 12, 2022 at 10:39 PM
Immensely blessed by your poetry friendship Connie, and inspired by your poetic presence at Soup. I relish every comment you make and anticipate with joy every new poem of yours. Blessings to you ~ John
Alex Avatar
January 7, 2022 at 8:03 AM
Great work. Congratulations!
Watt Avatar
January 12, 2022 at 10:37 PM
I appreciate your kindness, Christuraj ~ John
Norton Avatar
January 7, 2022 at 5:23 AM
A masterful poem, John. A powerful and heartfelt message. Thank you, thank you. Bryan
Watt Avatar
January 8, 2022 at 11:07 AM
I appreciate your kind words Bryan. Enjoy your Saturday ~ John
Seeker Avatar
January 7, 2022 at 1:09 AM
Now that the contest is over, I can finally fave this one! Thanks for sharing, John and congrats on your win!
Watt Avatar
January 7, 2022 at 10:24 AM
Thank you Seeker, for sponsoring this contest and allowing us to listen in on the soul whispering within these talented poet's inner thoughts; I'm looking forward to reading each of your winners' contributions. Thank you also for your high regard of this one. Blessings upon your day ~ John
Kaufman Avatar
July 20, 2021 at 4:36 PM
This is a classic John. I loved your words so filled with wisdom.
Watt Avatar
July 21, 2021 at 10:48 AM
Thank you for the visit and very high praise, Nancy. Enjoy your day ~ John
Witmer Avatar
January 5, 2021 at 7:08 PM
Added to my favorites, John. Wonderful poem loaded with such wisdom. A masterpiece of both style and content.
Watt Avatar
January 7, 2021 at 8:37 AM
Thank you for your fave and your warm review of this, Vernon. I hope you are enjoying your day ~ John
Kauffman Avatar
January 4, 2021 at 2:47 PM
How did I miss this amazing write John with its classic elements, and wisdom, of hymns and poems! "Then sings my soul" flows through every line of faith! Congratulations on your #1 placement - pre-season prediction! Less than two months till spring training and you are already pitching 100 mph+ fastballs! Happy New Year dear friend!
Watt Avatar
August 8, 2021 at 10:53 PM
So grateful for your poetry friendship, dear Sam. Your words simply vibrate with friendly enthusiasm and affirmation.
Pigeon Tart Avatar
January 2, 2021 at 7:39 PM
A masterpiece this is, xomo!
Watt Avatar
August 8, 2021 at 10:54 PM
Such high praise indeed. Thank you so much Mo. Xoxo ~ John
12345
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace