In the Eye of the Beholder-POTD

Quote --The ugly girl cries in front of the mirror, 
She does not want to adorn herself as no one cares, 
Till her blind lover tells her how beautiful she looks, 
She hugs him, kisses him and finds her beauty in him. -- unknown

An old sweater, stitched long ago 
by my wife’s loving hands, 
might feel old to some eyes—but to me 
it’s warmth and faith that still withstands. 

My novice painting endeavors, 
Laughed as worthy of hanging in the garage or a closet, 
The time and excitement I had working on them, 
Reflects my passion and an artwork of my dreams. 

Grandparent's face lined deep with time and laughter 
is scorned by those who only see scars; 
to me it’s a sky of constellations, 
each wrinkle a roadmap to the heart. 

The hillside shows its wounds to others— 
ash-choked ferns, a world burnt away. 
I see wild soul among the ruin— 
a story that the storm can’t fray. 

That old book, pages dog-eared and worn, 
might look shabby to a passer-by. 
But to me it glitters in amber light— 
a whispered memory that will never die. 

If ever voices deride what you hold dear, 
simply—gently—remember: 
The rose that blooms in midnight’s hush, 
The song known only by your mind, 
And the face that loves you best in this world— 
imperfect, true, and defined 
By the gaze that cherishes it. 

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2025

Poem

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M  Avatar
August 10, 2025 at 7:43 AM
How incredibly heartfelt and heart touching your poem is Jay…just beautiful! Congrats on POTD! Debx
Rodgers Avatar
August 8, 2025 at 5:27 AM
Hello Jay, In a world that's constantly telling us what should matter, this is so much more radical. Yes, our love makes things worthy. That what we cherish becomes beautiful by virtue of being cherished. This one's going to stay with me for a long time. Congrats on POTD! Blessings, My Friend, Daniel
Poet Avatar
August 7, 2025 at 11:16 AM
With this moving and beautiful poetry, you have won POTD, Jay. Your deep, vivid descriptions of your ideas are the most accurate representation of them.
Ray Choudhury Avatar
August 6, 2025 at 5:11 PM
Congratulations, Dear Poet, on your POTD with this heartfelt exquisite poem. Nothing is more true than the profound thoughts you expressed with rich imageries.
Dietrich Avatar
August 6, 2025 at 1:22 PM
Congrats for POTD. So many things we truly value are indeed old, worn and not so attractive any more.
Goldsmith Avatar
August 6, 2025 at 12:06 PM
Congratulations on your POTD win. I enjoyed reading your wonderful "In the Eye of the Beholder" write/story. Hope you are OK... Have a very blessed day with your win...........
Nicole Avatar
August 6, 2025 at 11:50 AM
' Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. ' This quote held truth when it was spoken and it still does today. Your thoughts are wonderful in every way. Congratulations Jay, on Poem of the Day. My best to you. :) Hugs, Brandy
Baker Avatar
August 6, 2025 at 10:48 AM
Back to offer my congratulations on your POTD honor, my friend. Yeah! Enjoy your special day of recognition. A poet friend in Texas, Bill
Gifford Avatar
August 6, 2025 at 6:59 AM
Hello Jay, congratulations on winning POTD with your beautiful and heartfelt poem. An excellent write. Have a wonderful day as you celebrate.
Etgen-Baker Avatar
August 6, 2025 at 2:48 AM
returning to congratulate you on your POTD designation...an outstanding poem well-deserving of the award.
Seeker Avatar
August 6, 2025 at 2:17 AM
Straight from the heart! Profound quote too. Enjoyed your exquisite poem, Jay, warmest congratulations on POTD
Edmonds  Avatar
August 6, 2025 at 2:07 AM
I too am touched by your wonderful poem Jay. Each wrinkle a roadmap to the heart, love that line, it’s a beautiful quote. Congratulations on receiving poem of the day Jay… Beryl
George Avatar
August 6, 2025 at 2:01 AM
"Grandparents' face lined deep with time and laughter is scorned by those who only see scars; to me it’s a sky of constellations, each wrinkle a roadmap to the heart." What a lovely stanza. I love this wonderful tribute to your grandparents. Love the whole poem. Glad to see it as POTD. Congratulations dear Jay ji. Into my FAVE.
Andresen Avatar
August 6, 2025 at 1:12 AM
- Hurray...congrats on your p.o.t.d. Jay ... enjoy :) - hugs
Etgen-Baker Avatar
August 5, 2025 at 4:11 PM
absolutely enjoyed this heartwarming poem...touched my heart, almost teary eyed. I especially liked the 2d verse--reminds me of the quilt my mother made me years ago. Although its frayed and worn, I cherish it, for her spirit is in each thread. Well done. Best wishes with the contest. Faving, Sara
Baker Avatar
August 5, 2025 at 4:09 PM
A FAV for my list, dear, Jay. Your words tell a true story, that many will relate to. To me, the signs of wear on anyone or thing, simply shows as badges of courage and a sign they or it has engaged in life and won. Blessings my friend. Good luck if for a contest! A poet friend in Texas, Bill
Anaya Avatar
August 5, 2025 at 11:40 AM
Oh, you made me emotional, Jay. I wasn't expecting such a heartwarming poem today! Love it__Anaya
Poet Avatar
August 5, 2025 at 10:45 AM
A Beautiful poem with rich imagery and many layers of interesting views
Andresen Avatar
August 5, 2025 at 10:34 AM
- A heartwarming poem, Jay :) - hugs
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