The First Time

The first time I placed a poem
For other poets to critique, 
I did so with trepidation,
As I felt my knees go weak.

I feared they would think it childish,
Quite old fashioned, a bit crude,
Unaware that well run forums
Insist comments be not rude.

I posted it and then I left
Without looking back that day.
I was so afraid of what I'd find
When the poets had their say.

When I found the nerve to look again,
My poem was waiting there,
With comments and with compliments
All extremely kind and fair.

My first poem having survived it,
Gave me confidence to dare
To enter others on the web.
Today they are everywhere.

I've had some minor triumphs,
Won some contests, made new friends.
That first poem has now spawned thousands
And that first thrill never ends.


placed 2nd in First Time contest
Copyright © | Year Posted 2010


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Date: 6/28/2010 9:34:00 AM
Congratulations Joyce on your win in Joe Flach's contest "First Time". Love, Carol
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Date: 6/22/2010 7:46:00 PM
I love this one Joyce! It's not easy for sure, to share poetry, it's like a part of us! I am glad also to have found a place I can trust! Blessings! TK
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Date: 6/22/2010 7:44:00 PM
OH, yes, yes, this was a first I should have thought of myself. Why didn't I??? Your experience so closely mirrors my own, Joyce, and I know your histry, how late in life you started writing. Congrats. You are on a roll, lady. OH, the book was mailed to you today! andrea
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Date: 6/22/2010 1:21:00 PM
I felt the same way....you wrote this poem for each of us, I do believe!! Thanks Joyce! ~ Carrie
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Date: 6/22/2010 2:34:00 AM
Had almost an identical experience when I first joined, Joyce...beautifully done and congratulations also! - Tim
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Date: 6/21/2010 1:59:00 AM
I think you spoke for all of us here- Many Congrats my friend
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Date: 6/20/2010 11:57:00 AM
soupmail
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Date: 6/19/2010 8:31:00 PM
Warm congratulations on your great 2nd Place win in the contest, Joyce! And I enjoy and admire your work! Love, Audrey
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Date: 6/19/2010 11:07:00 AM
Congratulations on your win in Joe Flach's contest "First Time" Joyce. Love, Carol
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Date: 6/18/2010 8:00:00 PM
nice write congrats on your win cheers oscar
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Date: 6/18/2010 6:52:00 PM
Joyce, this was a terrific entry in my contest and one I am sure everyone here can empathize with. Very creative and right on topic. Thanks for entering the contest and sharing this great poem with me. Joe
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Date: 6/18/2010 5:35:00 PM
Joyce, your success in Joe's and others' contests surely has given you some confidence. Never doubt your poetic talent. You're truly gifted and it's always a pleasure to read your work! Love, Carolyn
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Date: 6/18/2010 4:39:00 PM
Yeah! Go ladies!!!! we can write..we can cook...we can make babies too.we can do anything thing and everything....any man can do! (except relieve ourself standing up? GRIN) What a great verse!
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Date: 6/18/2010 3:03:00 PM
Congrats Joyce on your 2nd place win in Joe's contest with this wonderful write and a great win for u my friend.. with luv ..enjoy.. Linda-Marie
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Date: 6/16/2010 10:30:00 PM
So true, there is always that "what if" factor. Rather than be critical I leave comments on poetry I do like.....Blessings.... Karla
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Date: 6/16/2010 6:28:00 PM
This is too good and reflects the way I feel..skeered ! LOL
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Date: 6/16/2010 5:56:00 PM
And they are wonderful.. just like this one... love constance
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Date: 6/16/2010 5:32:00 PM
I think nearly everyone will have the same thrills ,joys, doubts etc.,Joyce
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