Alison A Smith Poet Free verse

Notes About The Poem

Written 26th July, 2026

Excellence or Bust

Forever  
fighting for existence,  
always  
reaching for more.  

Good is never enough.  
Only perfection  
will do.  

So many break  
beneath the burden,  
reaching  
for what  
they cannot hold.  

Show them  
the ladder,  
the door  
half-open,  
the path  
toward light.  

Until they believe  
they can rise,  
they keep  
slipping.

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Abhishek Soni July 30, 2026 at 12:07 AM Those are some true words...Keep going! Alison A Smith July 30, 2026 at 12:10 AM You too my friend.

Joe Maverick July 29, 2026 at 12:14 PM Too true lil Shiela, i can see why many Enjoy read'n ya.) Alison A Smith July 29, 2026 at 4:43 PM Thanks Joe, I enjoy giving enjoyment and thought through my poems.

Sara Kendrick July 29, 2026 at 7:44 AM Yes, a person needs to be encouraged to believe in themselves. I like this one. Way to go, Alison. Thank you for sharing it with us. Sara K. Alison A Smith July 29, 2026 at 4:41 PM Thank you Sara your visits are appreciated

Howard Kerr July 29, 2026 at 7:00 AM Alison, I enjoyed this meaningful, probing poem which challenges the reader to reflect on all matters philosophical and practical. Thank you for your positive review of Evening Lure Awhile. Howard Alison A Smith July 29, 2026 at 7:07 AM Thank you for your visit Howard.

Kim Rodrigues July 27, 2026 at 4:51 PM Ooh…love those last lines. So true. People seem to be afraid of “good,” rather chasing something left or right of goodness. But slipping and falling is not fun. Hugs Alison A Smith July 27, 2026 at 5:13 PM I guess I did good. Thank you for your comment.

Hiya Sharma July 27, 2026 at 2:36 AM Yes, it's all about believing and how the stars align for us! Sometimes a lil flicker or sparkle can do the work.. the beautiful reflection of seeking living that you've depicted here is really heartfelt, dear Alison. Pleasure reading your words! Sending you light and best wishes always! Alison A Smith July 27, 2026 at 2:57 AM Thank you Hiya for your insights.

Gershon Wolf July 26, 2026 at 8:28 PM Heh-heh. A little luck helps as well. ~ Just sayin' Alison A Smith July 26, 2026 at 8:39 PM Sometimes just being in the right place at the right time is all that's needed to start that climb.

Paige Hind July 26, 2026 at 5:02 PM very telling, Alison, your light is beautiful Alison A Smith July 26, 2026 at 8:38 PM Paige you light up my day by your presence.

Paula Goldsmith July 26, 2026 at 8:22 AM I enjoyed reading your powerful write. Great Picture... Have a Lovely/Blessed Day Writing Away................ Alison A Smith July 26, 2026 at 2:14 PM Thank you Paula