sara Etgen-Baker Poet Free verse

Notes About The Poem

image from ar.inspiredpencil.com

NOT MINE TO KEEP

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gravel remembers footsteps,
the grind and scatter of paths taken.

my hands cup creek water,
let slip what cannot be held.

this breath—not mine to keep,
yet given. always given.

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William Kelii Kekaula November 17, 2025 at 8:07 PM To thine own self be true; hence, all beyond you is not yours to possess, keep, or own. Let their possessions, keepsakes, and ownership be, and they will let you be at peace and content with yourself. sara Etgen-Baker November 24, 2025 at 6:37 PM wise comments, dear William. thanks for visiting and sharing, Sara

Valsa George November 17, 2025 at 1:29 AM We are just custodians of what we have. We can't hold on to anything permanently. We are obliged to return what we possessed once, when asked. Profound thoughts, dear Sara. sara Etgen-Baker November 24, 2025 at 6:38 PM I agree....we are truly 'custodians'...I love that. Thanks for visiting and for your encouraring thoughts.

Gershon Wolf November 15, 2025 at 7:43 PM THIS is real poetry. Contest-worthy at a high level. Have you submitted it to top poetry magazines? Bravo, Gershon sara Etgen-Baker November 24, 2025 at 6:38 PM wow, thanks, Gershon. No, I've not submitted it, but I shall...great idea. You're the best!

Joe Maverick November 15, 2025 at 3:02 PM So it is Sara, all must be left..Anger love Greed riches power, and the corruption Such quite the plus, in the grander scheme.) sara Etgen-Baker November 24, 2025 at 6:39 PM appreciate your insightful words, Joe...enjoy your week

Line Gauthier November 15, 2025 at 1:42 PM this makes me think of the many generations that went before us ~ sara Etgen-Baker November 24, 2025 at 6:39 PM I can appreciate that...thanks for sharing

Paula Goldsmith November 15, 2025 at 10:34 AM "NOT MINE TO KEEP" is a creative write. Great Picture... "Good Luck" if for a contest. Have a fun weekend writing away.......... sara Etgen-Baker November 24, 2025 at 6:40 PM thank you, dear Paula...I appreciate your ongoing support and kindness, hugs, Sara