Our Souls' Wishes and the Hierarchy of Needs

There was a man named Maslow, who designed
a hierarchy of needs for every soul.
Foremost are the physiological.
Without food, water or sleep, we can’t be whole.

The other major needs are in this order:
Number 2: security; Third: love and belonging.
Fourth involves confidence and respect of others.
Are there any of these things for which you still are longing?

Most people have the basics met, but think of refugees
living day to day with lack of food.
And think of all the stressed-out souls in category three,
lacking jobs and family! How bad must be their mood.

I’d say a good majority of us and folks we know
have work and loved ones and a roof above their head.
Intimate relationships and self-esteem
mean that our souls’ appetites are being fed.

Self-actualization is the pinnacle
when all of our souls’ wishes are being met.
Then we are creative, wise, and lacking prejudice,
but I think many have not gotten that far yet!

If more souls could feel self-actualized,
I believe we’d see more peace and much less strife.
But people face despair and get hung up
on basic facets needful for living a good life.

Think about the Hierarchy of Needs.
Are you fulfilled in all of them? If not,
you must reflect on what your soul is missing.
Then do your best to fill that empty spot.

Be mindful, always showing gratitude
for what you’ve got, and savor all the good
that’s come to you! We don’t need all that much
to feel the joy of peace and brotherhood!

Dec. 19, 2022
for Unseeking Seeker's Our Soul’s Wish List Poetry Contest
Copyright © | Year Posted 2022

Poem

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Goldsmith Avatar
December 28, 2022 at 9:24 AM
Congratulations on your win. Much to think about. Yes, say thank you and always be grateful. Have A Merry/Happy/Healthy/Blessed New Year 2023....................
Alex Avatar
December 27, 2022 at 8:41 PM
Great work on needs and their fulfillment. Congratulations!
La France Avatar
December 27, 2022 at 9:28 AM
Andrea, a terrific poem and congratulations on your win in Seeker's contest, well done, blessings
Kendrick Avatar
December 22, 2022 at 3:18 PM
Yes, God is good in that our needs can be met fully in most cases if we only look around to see what we are blessed with having. I enjoyed reading your contest entry. Way to go. Thanks for sharing and for dropping by my page. Sara
Maverick Avatar
December 20, 2022 at 12:00 AM
A lot of food for thought here Andrea, thanks For the post.' Btw check you hotmail i beleive you will have one from c.cowley.?
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