Kintsugi

Searches for perfection abound -
creams for flawless complexion,
toothpaste for perfect white teeth, 
diets to give one an ideal figure,
salves, make-up, lotions, hairspray,  
an endless desire not to show flaws.

Why do we all aspire to be copies 
of Venus or Adonis or a movie star?
Show me see the slightly crooked tooth
In a wide smile that lights a room,
A child with poor eyesight 
Who wears green cat’s-eye glasses,

Show me a woman whose walker or
cane is trimmed with spring flowers,
a girl whose mousy hair sports
purple streaks or a heavy woman
who wears a red silk dress and heels. 
Show me people who understand  
That accenting their flaws can create
That special beauty called character.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2021

Poem

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Kauffman Avatar
August 21, 2021 at 9:46 AM
Ah, that ability to see past the surface and into the beauty mark of the spirit - to see with God's eyes and and delight in every creation! Congratulations on your win. Blessings.
Peckham Avatar
August 21, 2021 at 10:59 AM
It is very thoughtful of you to read my work and take the time to comment. Thank you so much. I enjoyed learning about kintsugi as well.
Agustin Avatar
August 20, 2021 at 9:28 PM
Wow! Congrats! Thanks for sharing this reality in your awesome poetic style. God bless you.
Peckham Avatar
August 21, 2021 at 10:58 AM
Thank you for the compliment on my work. I do so appreciate it. Learning about kintsugi was really interesting.
Scragg Avatar
August 20, 2021 at 8:15 PM
Love this one. Congrats on getting top ten. It was a very intriguing contest theme wasn't it? It was interesting to learn about Kintsugi as I'd never heard of it before. A beautiful poem to illustrate Kintsugi in character. Enjoyed your take on the theme ;-)
Peckham Avatar
August 21, 2021 at 10:57 AM
Fascinating contest and yes. I learned about kintsugi for the first time. Thank you for reading and commenting
Peck Avatar
August 14, 2021 at 9:11 AM
Beautiful! And so very true. Our fixation with beauty diminishes as we age and we begin to see the real person. Your poem is a wakeup call to celebrate true beauty.
Peckham Avatar
August 14, 2021 at 9:52 AM
You are very kind with your comments. I appreciate them especially because I admire your own poetry.
Pandit Avatar
August 14, 2021 at 5:21 AM
WOW! Superb theme, Barbara. Your poem mends the broken.
Peckham Avatar
August 14, 2021 at 6:29 AM
How nice of you to read and comment on my poem. I really appreciate your lovely compliment.
Hankins Avatar
August 13, 2021 at 11:49 AM
Marvelous, Barbara. You've done it again...an outstanding piece of writing, well-thought-out and expertly expressed! Good writing!
Peckham Avatar
August 13, 2021 at 6:48 PM
I'm not absolutely sure it is what was wanted in the contest, but we will see. I do feel there is a lot of truth in it.
Leffanta Avatar
August 13, 2021 at 11:39 AM
Well thought and scribed! It amazes me that so many people fail to realise what we REALLY find attractive is just a FAMILIAR face! Aloha! Rico
Peckham Avatar
August 13, 2021 at 6:50 PM
Thank you so much, Rico, for the nice compliment. I believe it's the truth.
Daniel Avatar
August 13, 2021 at 1:49 AM
Beautiful poem, Barbara, really inspiring message :)
Peckham Avatar
August 13, 2021 at 6:49 PM
You are so kind. Thank you for reading and making such a nice comment.
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