In A World Where I Do Not Exist

Near a distant sun
Under an uncontaminated crystalline sky
Exists a world without me

Where the viridescent grass ages unchallenged 
Wears wizened beards
And bows only to the wind

Where the waters crash when you thirst to surf
Smooths when you desire to paddle
And ripples towards shore when you’re heading home

Where zebras change their stripes daily 
From neon green to psychedelic purple 
Or any color in between 

Where the “H” on a building simply symbolizes “Help”
And is a communal gathering place
Where anyone can ask and receive assistance with anything 

Where government is synonymous with communication 
Leadership is synonymous with service 
And opponent is synonymous with respect 

But, this distant inhabitation,
Magnificent as it may be
Lacks Caleb, Adam, and Kelsi

Two sons and a daughter that have shone so bright
That they must have burned themselves into my pupils 
Since they are always in my sight

So, I turn from this distant scene
A dream without an imperfect me
Because,

A world full of wonders 
Will always fall short of wonderful 
Without the likes of Caleb, Adam, and Kelsi
Copyright © | Year Posted 2024

Poem

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George Avatar
February 6, 2026 at 8:48 PM
There exists a world that may be beautiful. But to one with a loving heart, even such a place may not seem beautiful without the loved ones. What gives one a sense of belonging is the presence of those whom one places close to his heart. Wonderful poem, dear Robert.
Sidwell Avatar
February 7, 2026 at 2:03 PM
Thank you Valsa!
Elliott Avatar
September 11, 2024 at 9:28 AM
Wondrous penning, Robert. If this poem is for the contest, my very best wishes. Have a splendid evening. All the best. :)
Sidwell Avatar
September 11, 2024 at 3:47 PM
Thank you!!
Kavanagh  Avatar
September 8, 2024 at 2:04 PM
Easy to see why this one placed so highly Robert, I love that line how your children burned themselves into your pupils, perhaps as your pupils as well, great choice of language here (psychedelic colours) also gives another dimension, congratulations, cheers David
Sidwell Avatar
September 9, 2024 at 8:30 AM
Thanks, David!
One Avatar
September 7, 2024 at 7:52 AM
I think we would all find it difficult to imagine a world without out loved ones... Congratulations on your placement in the contest..
Sidwell Avatar
September 8, 2024 at 10:29 AM
Thank you! Great contest to inspire creativity!
Dietrich Avatar
August 31, 2024 at 1:51 PM
Ahh such a sweet one keeping your family uppermost in your mind
Sidwell Avatar
August 31, 2024 at 3:32 PM
Thank you Andrea!
Empress Avatar
August 28, 2024 at 5:26 AM
Brilliant and very descriptive too how you’ve expressed here dear robert, you have a way with words: i really love especially the lines “ Where zebras change their stripes daily From neon green to psychedelic purple Or any color in between” how imaginative and artistic makes on dream away and think of all the possibilities youv expressed in such deep metaphors! The ending is so heartfelt! Felt this poem woven in eloquence! Pleasure reading this! Sending you light
Sidwell Avatar
August 28, 2024 at 8:35 AM
Thank you so much Empress!!
Rose  Avatar
August 28, 2024 at 12:02 AM
This is very touching and deep, Robert so heart felt
Sidwell Avatar
August 28, 2024 at 8:35 AM
Thank you Mystic Rose!
Rodrigues Avatar
August 27, 2024 at 5:46 PM
Aww so sweet! Love the changing colors of the zebras’ stripes!
Sidwell Avatar
August 28, 2024 at 8:36 AM
Thank you, Kim!
Bartley Avatar
August 27, 2024 at 5:32 PM
Good luck. The competition is thick on this one. Thanks for sharing.
Sidwell Avatar
August 28, 2024 at 8:39 AM
Thank you! I agree, this subject has inspired many great entries from what I’ve seen!
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