Daniel Henry Rodgers Poet Dramatic Monologue

Notes About The Poem

Prepare to embark on a journey that delves into the complexities of human emotions.

The turbulent landscape of the human psyche where you are invited to traverse the misty corridors of your own souls, grappling with the complexities of insecurities, envy, jealousy, hate, suffering, scorn, despair, self-doubt to self-discovery, and acceptance. In this evocative journey, I confront the age-old dilemma of embracing one's authentic self while navigating the tumultuous currents of inner conflict.

- Daniel Henry Rodgers

 

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Inner Turmoil

It is not fair, it is not just,
That you have things that I don't!

Do I suffer with envy and jealousy,
Coiling like a noose in my chest?

Or do I strive to improve myself?
Or do I accept you as you are,
Or love me for who I am?

Should I detest our differing destinies,
Or must I strive to enhance my stance?

Should I seek your praise or scorn,
Or must I be happy and calm?

I think I am the master of my fate,
Loving myself for who I am...?

But who am I, but a reflection of you,
A mirror of your virtues and flaws?

Admire or abhor?
Accept you, as you are,
Or love myself for who I am?

Wait—what makes you luckier?
When life's a gamble of cards and chance?

Should I grieve your destiny or mine,
Or must I strive to move my groove?

You are the image of my soul,
Reflecting light and dark.

Should I admire your charm or… loathe your faults,
Or must I cherish you as you are?

I should be the master of my fate,
Loving myself for who I am.

Should I seek your praise or scorn,
Or must I be happy and calm?

Your world stretches like a sun-drenched meadow,
While mine feels like a cramped, dimly lit room.
While I grasp a mere crumb,
Scales teetering, balance trembling.

Do I wallow in spite and self-pity?

Do I envy you, my perceived foe?
Blame the hand I'm dealt,
Crave your approval, loathe your scorn?

You have the sun, I have the moon,
This disparity throws me into a state of…
Despair threatening to swallow me whole,
Pulling me into its icy depths.

Envy you as a formidable adversary?

Chase your allure of glory or scandalous shame,
Curse your lot or perhaps my name,
Crave your radiant smile or icy chill frown?

What makes you luckier than me?
Life's a gamble of destiny and decree,
Drown in green-eyed sorrow?

I Should, I SHould, I SHOULD… I Must, I MUst, I MUST…

…Perhaps…

Just Do!

Navigate my inner world,
Chart my own course, set sail,
Embrace my authentic self.

Today, I choose to cherish us both for who we are.
Towards a future yet unwritten.

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Shadow Hamilton March 13, 2024 at 11:06 PM You have exactly hit the nail on its head what a great poem to start the day with. I do so love soap and its wonderful people who are such positive beams of light like yourself Daniel keep writing your gems of wisdom hugs Shadow Daniel Henry Rodgers March 14, 2024 at 4:51 AM Dear Shadow, Your words fill me with joy and gratitude. Knowing that my poem resonated with you and brought a positive start to your day warms my heart. Soap and its community, including shining souls like you, inspire me endlessly. Your encouragement fuels my pen. Keep writing with passion and sincerity. Sending you warm hugs and endless thanks. - Blessings, my friend, Daniel

Paige Hind March 11, 2024 at 4:18 PM This is so honest. It makes us all question our motives and thoughts. A pleasure to read- Daniel Henry Rodgers March 11, 2024 at 6:48 PM Dear Paige, thank you my friend for your affirming note to my poem. - Blessings Daniel

Susan Manley March 11, 2024 at 8:38 AM Yikes, envy that green eyed demon. I have been on both sides of that. When I am envious I drop into analytical mode and figure out why and what I don't have or want. If its realistic I drop in a goal. If its not , I let it slide off the radar. Life is too short. To be the target of envy is to just let everyone know you know they can achieve what you have done. I lay breadcrumbs. I blaze trails. I share recognition. And I just keep doing. Its my thang. Daniel Henry Rodgers March 11, 2024 at 9:12 AM Dear Susan, I loved your reflection on envy. It's commendable how you channel it into productive introspection and goal-setting. Your approach of laying breadcrumbs, blazing trails, and sharing recognition is inspiring. Keep shining your light and empowering others through your actions. Thank you for sharing your wisdom. I am now going to go read your poem. - Blessings, Daniel

Josefina Costales March 6, 2024 at 4:31 PM Accepting yourself for who or what you are takes incredible strength, and be content and not envying others their fine qualities - that also needs a lot of courage. This poem says it all. Also thanks for visiting my page…Josefina Daniel Henry Rodgers March 6, 2024 at 4:56 PM Dear Josefina, I am thankful for your reflection on my poem and truly is honor. Acceptance of oneself and others is indeed a journey of courage and strength. Your words capture the essence of embracing our unique qualities and finding contentment in our own skin. Thank you for sharing your insight and for the warm welcome to your page. Let's continue celebrating the beauty of authenticity and self-acceptance together. - Blessings, Daniel

Andrea Dietrich March 5, 2024 at 12:48 PM You have enshrined inside this poem a most important message: to love yourself and others without envy. I think almost everyone wishes for SOMEthing in their life to be different. But we have to make do with what we were given or with what we chose. I think I don't have a problem with envy, but I sometimes have pity parties about the neurological conditions a medicine left me with. As we get older, we can look at the advent of death as a relief for our suffering. Daniel Henry Rodgers March 6, 2024 at 4:58 PM Dear Andrea, your heartfelt response to my poem touches upon the intricate layers of human experience. Your words reflect a deep understanding of the complexities of self-love and acceptance, even in the face of challenges and unforeseen circumstances. It takes great courage to navigate life's trials with grace and resilience, especially when grappling with health issues. Your honesty about your own journey with neurological conditions is a testament to your strength and vulnerability. Thank you for sharing your perspective and for acknowledging the importance of embracing life, flaws and all. Blessings, my dear friend. - Daniel

Kelli White March 4, 2024 at 3:31 PM Incredible turmoil from above and below, inside and out. Love yourself and the world will love you more, well done, kelli Daniel Henry Rodgers March 4, 2024 at 4:53 PM Hello Kelli, thanks for engaging my poem and your kind remark. Unfortunately, Many people find it hard to love themselves. However, like you said if they could the world would be a better place for them. - Blessings, Daniel

Deb M March 4, 2024 at 12:00 PM The battle of inner turmoil….the biggest battle of them all! Well written and insightful Daniel! Debx Daniel Henry Rodgers March 4, 2024 at 12:03 PM Hello Deb, Thank you for visiting and commenting on my poem. It does come down to the Inner Turmoil that most of us put ourselves in. Have a wonderful week, my friend. - Blessings, Daniel

Valsa George March 4, 2024 at 4:04 AM "Navigate my inner world, Chart my own course, set sail, Embrace my authentic self"...... Dear David, you have flung to us the key to success and joy. Happiness is not derived from external sources. It springs from within by accepting us as we are and appreciating others for their merits and not counting on their defects. Happiness can never be bought with money or fame. If our mind is free of jealousy and hatred, happiness will nest within us. True happiness is to stay satisfied with what we have. This is such an insightful poem as most of your poems are.... perhaps the best sermon I have heard of late. Daniel Henry Rodgers March 4, 2024 at 9:08 AM Dear Valsa, Your profound insights touch me deeply. I'm grateful for your reflection on the essence of happiness and authenticity conveyed in my poem. Your words resonate with truth, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and genuine appreciation for others. Thank you for recognizing the depth of the message conveyed. Your feedback inspires me to continue exploring meaningful themes in my poetry. - Blessings, Daniel

Robert Schatz March 4, 2024 at 3:27 AM A really powerful portrayal of resentment, envy, and loathing, feelings we all grapple with. I love how you end the poem: "Today, I choose to cherish us both for who we are. Towards a future yet unwritten." Daniel Henry Rodgers March 4, 2024 at 9:11 AM Dear Robert, Thank you for your thoughtful analysis of my poem. Resentment, envy, and loathing are indeed universal emotions, and I aimed to capture their complexities. I'm glad you liked the concluding lines, emphasizing the power of choice in fostering acceptance and embracing the unknown future. Your feedback means a lot. -Blessings, my friend, Daniel

Victor Buhagiar March 4, 2024 at 1:07 AM We often indulge in various emotions. Jealousy is one of the worst, But I like your arguments to and fro. A fine poem. Daniel Henry Rodgers March 4, 2024 at 9:13 AM Hello Victor, thank you so much for stopping by and leaving your affirmations. Yes, being a counselor I not only work with clients with varying plethora of emotions but it helps me to be in touch with my emotions, good, bad or indifferent. I always thought the good Lord put them there for a reason. - Blessings, Daniel

Mystic Rose Rose March 3, 2024 at 7:54 PM In your in depth poem Daniel, I can see that you reason with yourself quite extensively and by doing that, all the emotions that harm like jealousy and envy, are relinquished in exchange for a peaceful acceptance, I admire you greatly for that. That honest inner reflection comes through your poetry nicely, giving your poem soul. Thank you for sharing the gift of you :) Daniel Henry Rodgers March 4, 2024 at 9:15 AM Dearest Rose, Your heartfelt words truly touched me. Thank you for recognizing the depth of my inner reflections and the journey towards acceptance portrayed in my poem. It means a lot to me that my words touched you and that you appreciate the honesty and soul in my poetry. Your kind words inspire me to continue sharing my innermost thoughts through my writing. Thank you for your support and encouragement my friend. - Blessings, Daniel

Besma Riabi Dziri March 3, 2024 at 10:38 AM Envious I am! Reading your Inner Turmoil and looking up to such deep and insightful rendition! Indeed we are of dualities.. Sentiments and thoughts reside inside.. of which developed, fed, deepened.. We are of all you have wonderfully put into words! Nevertheless so different by degrees and levels in the Light, Love, Faith, Hope, Tolerance, Endurance.. A whole process and growth we all strive to attain.. As you have beautifully ended your enlightening poetry, "cherish us both for who we are" So much enjoyed reading you, Daniel. A poetry of Beauty and Light! My deepest regards and blessings. Daniel Henry Rodgers March 3, 2024 at 4:10 PM Dear Besma, Your heartfelt response to my poem “Inner Turmoil” touched me deeply. Your words reflect a profound understanding of the complexities that reside within each of us. It’s reassuring to know that others can relate to the dualities we experience, the interplay between sentiments and thoughts that shape our existence. Your closing reflection, to cherish both aspects of ourselves, encapsulates a wisdom that transcends words. It speaks to the essence of acceptance and self-love, virtues that are indispensable on our journey towards wholeness. Thank you, Besma, for not only reading my poem but for truly engaging with its themes and sharing your own insights. Your words have added depth and beauty to the conversation, enriching our shared human experience. With deepest regards and blessings, Daniel

Ink Empress March 3, 2024 at 5:44 AM Perhaps, just do! Exactly. Well we live in a world where so many hide their true intentions and emotions, some are pathological liars to their ownselves, they feed themselves with lies that they eventually believe in. Anyhow what a profound write this is dear daniel, as always, those emotions that are suppressed and sometimes how so many struggle with those emotions, envy jealousy, acceptance etc its an ongoing challenge, and battle, and youv described it in such eloquence; in such a powerful Daniel Henry Rodgers March 3, 2024 at 6:06 AM Dearest Empress, I believe you to be an empath like myself for you easily recognize the complexity of human emotions and the struggles we face in navigating them. Your wonderful and heartfelt insights into the poem's questioning nature and introspective tone truly touch the soul. It's reassuring to know that you share similar reflections on life's uncertainties and the pursuit of authenticity. Empress, as always your appreciation means a great deal to me. Thank you for your empath insights and for making a connection with the poem. - Blessings, Daniel Ink Empress March 3, 2024 at 5:46 AM Manner. I must say i get that a lot too, around me people who question this “ Wait—what makes you luckier? When life's a gamble of cards and chance? Should I grieve your destiny or mine, Or must I strive to move my groove?” What i love about this poem is the way you question throughout in such an introspective manner and also the depth of every word woven here is truly soul hitting.” You have the sun, i have the moon” that line will stay within my mind for a very long time! So good! So deep! Profound it is! Fave

Sotto Poet March 2, 2024 at 5:02 PM Dear Daniel, this poem shows the struggle with envy, self-acceptance, the journey towards embracing one's authentic self and explores the internal conflict of comparing oneself to others and feeling envious of their perceived acts. The poem is filled with rhetorical questions, emphasizing the internal struggle and the various conflicting emotions. The use of metaphors, such as "life's a gamble of cards and chance" and "You have the sun, I have the moon," adds depth to this gem. Another Fave Daniel Henry Rodgers March 3, 2024 at 5:51 AM Dear Sotto, your insights into my poem are deeply appreciated. Your understanding of the themes of envy, self-acceptance, and authenticity within the piece truly wonderful. Thank you for recognizing the internal conflicts and the use of metaphors to convey them. Your appreciation means a lot to me. - Blessings, Daniel

Kim Rodrigues March 2, 2024 at 1:03 PM Gratitude is perhaps the remedy for envy. First we are thankful then we can move forward. Not as simple as that but simply put. Enjoyed the prelude and poem. A great inspection of our hearts. We had a missionary visit our Sunday School class. Messed with their minds that here they were thought to be poor but at their assignment, they were rich. Makes you think. Daniel Henry Rodgers March 2, 2024 at 1:17 PM Dear Kim, your reflections on my poem are inspiring. It's intriguing how encounters, like the missionary visit you described, challenge our perceptions. Your insight underscores the complexity of human experience—how we navigate between appearances and realities, wealth and poverty, both material and spiritual. It's a reminder to embrace nuance and introspectively explore the layers of our hearts. Thank you for sharing your thoughtful perspective. - Blessings, Daniel

Silent One March 2, 2024 at 7:35 AM Your poem delves deep into the complexities of human emotions, particularly the struggle with envy, self-acceptance, and the quest for authenticity. It navigates the tumultuous terrain of comparison, self-reflection, and the pursuit of individual identity amidst perceived disparities in life's circumstances. The opening lines, "It is not fair, it is not just, / That you have things that I don't," encapsulate the sentiment of injustice and disparity that often fuels feelings of envy and self-doubt. You grapple with the internal turmoil of whether to succumb to envy or to embark on a journey of self-improvement and acceptance. Daniel Henry Rodgers March 2, 2024 at 12:02 PM Dearest Silent One, your reflection on my poem means a lot to me. You've beautifully captured the essence of the internal struggles depicted within its verses. Envy, self-acceptance, and the pursuit of authenticity are indeed complex facets of the human experience. Your understanding of the tumultuous terrain we navigate is profoundly insightful. Thank you for delving into the depths of my words with such introspection. - Blessings, Daniel

Jerry Brotherton March 2, 2024 at 5:04 AM Another brilliant poem, Daniel. It is a hard thing to make peace with your inner self when it is always questioning each decision. Daniel Henry Rodgers March 2, 2024 at 12:00 PM Hello Jerry, your recognition means a lot. Indeed, making peace with our inner selves amidst constant questioning is a profound journey. Your understanding adds wonderful depth to the conversation. Thank you for your thoughtful reflection. - Blessings, Daniel

Joseph P. DiMino March 2, 2024 at 2:49 AM "But who am I, but a reflection of you, A mirror of your virtues and flaws?" -- we really do see in others, what is already in ourselves. "Today, I choose to cherish us both for who we are. Towards a future yet unwritten." Wise and comforting words. What we see, declare in others, we will reap -- damn not the self! Daniel Henry Rodgers March 2, 2024 at 11:58 AM Hello Joe, your insightful interpretation beautifully captures the essence of interconnectedness and self-awareness portrayed in my poem. Your reflection on cherishing ourselves and others is key. Let's embrace our reflections and sow seeds of compassion. Thank you for your wisdom and encouragement. - Blessings, Daniel

Maria Williams March 1, 2024 at 9:26 PM Whether it's finding oneself chasing after glory or trying to avoid scandal, whether its to feel like you're cursed or lost in life? It's okay to crave approval and fear disapproval. Life is full of ups and downs, twists and turns. Instead of saying "I should", let's say "I must". To navigate ones inner world and chart a course towards ones dreams, let's embrace our true selves and let it guide us towards a brighter future. Today, let's cherish our unique selves and create the life we deserve while remembering we have the power to shape our destiny. A very deep and profound expose` dear Daniel... Daniel Henry Rodgers March 2, 2024 at 11:56 AM Dearest Maria, your reflections are profoundly insightful and deeply thought out. Life's journey, with its myriad twists and turns, often leads us to seek approval and avoid disapproval. Your words truly speaks to us to embrace our true selves, navigating our inner worlds towards brighter futures. Let's cherish our uniqueness and wield the power to shape our destinies. Your amazing depth of understanding enriches the conversation. - Blessings, my dear friend, Daniel

Nancy Kaufman March 1, 2024 at 6:39 PM Hi Daniel, Enjoyed reading this thought provoking poem, so rich in self-reflection as well as imagery. You made some very valid points. Charity begins at home with self-acceptance and love. Other wise we are incapable of loving others unconditionally. Daniel Henry Rodgers March 2, 2024 at 11:53 AM Dear Nancy, your thoughtful response truly resonates with the essence of my poem. Self-acceptance and love lay the foundation for genuine compassion towards others. Your insight adds depth to the conversation. Thank you for your kind words and reflection. - Blessings, Daniel

Hilda Greenhough March 1, 2024 at 6:31 PM I like this philosophy. Most people are jealous of me, so I realize this. Fate will reward those who focus on their own success. Good job. Daniel Henry Rodgers March 2, 2024 at 11:51 AM Dear Hilda, your recognition of the philosophy in my poem is deeply appreciated. Focusing on our own success without succumbing to jealousy is a powerful mindset. Thank you for your insightful words and encouragement my friend. - Blessings, Daniel

Evelyn Judy Buehler March 1, 2024 at 4:55 PM Your poem raises so many interesting and thought provoking questions, David. I loved, 'What makes you luckier than me? Life's a gamble of destiny and decree, Drown in green-eyed sorrow?' Loving and caring about our fellow human beings would allow no room for envy to grow, in my opinion. Great writing! Blessings. Daniel Henry Rodgers March 2, 2024 at 11:49 AM Dear Evelyn, your thoughtful reflection on my poem warms my heart. Indeed, cultivating love and compassion extinguishes the flames of envy. Your words resonate deeply, emphasizing the importance of empathy in our shared journey. Thank you for your kind words and blessings. - Blessings, Daniel

Bill Baker March 1, 2024 at 3:56 PM (continued) If I do the best I can each moment, I'll have no regrets and it makes it easier to accept others for who they are. Part of my philosophy of life is a belief that we all go through the same universal challenges in life. We just have different paths to the lessons that lead us all back to our Creator. We're all trying to fill the void inside of us. We're all trying to love and be loved for whom we authentically are. You made me think, Thanks! Blessings my friend, Bill Daniel Henry Rodgers March 2, 2024 at 11:47 AM Dear Bill, your profound reflections truly touch the essence of our shared human journey. Your philosophy of living from the inside out is a wonderful reflection, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and empathy. Your words inspire introspection and acceptance, fostering a sense of unity amidst life's challenges. Thank you for your thoughtful insights and blessings. Blessings, Daniel

Bill Baker March 1, 2024 at 3:51 PM Very creative poetry, Daniel. I like the challenge of the poem with all the questions, seemingly almost impossible to answer. If we live from the outside in, good luck with peace and love. Living from the inside out is much better for the whole of humanity. Inside is where the Love grows. it fills our cup, and we can then share it with humanity. My desire is to see others as doing the best they can for where they're at with what they have at any given moment. (continued)

Joseph May March 1, 2024 at 3:21 PM Envy and jealousy are the cause of many a strife, but some "detest the different destinies", feeling they should have what you have, A powerful verse, Blessings Daniel Henry Rodgers March 2, 2024 at 11:40 AM Hello Joe, your insightful reflections on my poem echo the complexities of envy and strife. Your insight into the resentment of different destinies adds depth to the narrative. Blessings for your thoughtful interpretation. - Daniel

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