L Milton Hankins Poet Rhyme

Notes About The Poem

["Sign of Splendor" first appeared in The Watchman Examiner in the early 1960s. It was included in my first chapbook, "The Lady in the Pink Hat," Candor Press, 1969, and it was reprinted in Grit: America's Greatest Family Newspaper, March 22, 1981. It was reprinted again in my collection of short stories and poetry, "Ashes on the Snow," Createspace, 2010.]

Sign of Splendor

When a man climbs a mountain
Or zooms into space,
When he meets a dilemma
Looks it straight in the face,
His head held high
He faces the sun
Meeting the challenge
Till victory is won.

When a man storms the walls
And fights for his right
When he takes to the task
With all of his might,
He grapples with courage
He conquers his fears
The sign of his splendor
Is reflected in tears.

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Gershon Wolf April 12, 2021 at 9:26 PM The last two lines resonate deep within me, Milt. They touch on a man's real-life experience and those of his comrades-in-arms. (Mine in Israel; not here). Bravo, Gershon L Milton Hankins April 13, 2021 at 7:05 AM Hey, thanks, Gershon. I appreciated your thoughtful comment. Have a terrific week!

Robert Pettit April 12, 2021 at 5:46 PM Your write provides inspiration to anyone who has to undergo a great task. L Milton Hankins April 12, 2021 at 7:46 PM Robert, I appreciate your kind and thoughtful comment. I certainly hope that is true.

Virginia Gelok April 12, 2021 at 5:26 PM This was so easy to read, to understand and give insight to a man's ( woman's) challenges in life ! L Milton Hankins April 12, 2021 at 7:45 PM Thanks for your thoughtful comment, Virginia. I appreciated it.

David Kavanagh April 12, 2021 at 2:27 PM Overcoming obstacles mans greatest achievements, some come at a high cost, tears of joy alas sometimes sadness, but human spirit is indomitable, great writing as always Milton, cheers David L Milton Hankins April 12, 2021 at 2:32 PM Thanks, David, I really appreciated the time you took to read and make a comment. Cheers to you!

Mystic Rose Rose April 12, 2021 at 1:17 PM My dad was an alpine man, he knew the value of climbing, a mountain. Thank you for sharing a delightful poem. :) L Milton Hankins April 12, 2021 at 1:24 PM Thanks so much, Mystic. I'm sure many times he faced utter frustration on the steep cliffs, but he conquered his fears. He probably also taught you to have vision and courage.