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

Poem

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Brown Avatar
June 28, 2010 at 9:34 AM
Congratulations Joyce on your win in Joe Flach's contest "First Time". Love, Carol
Ross Avatar
June 22, 2010 at 7:46 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
Dietrich Avatar
June 22, 2010 at 7:44 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
Richards Avatar
June 22, 2010 at 1:21 PM
I felt the same way....you wrote this poem for each of us, I do believe!! Thanks Joyce! ~ Carrie
Ryerson Avatar
June 22, 2010 at 2:34 AM
Had almost an identical experience when I first joined, Joyce...beautifully done and congratulations also! - Tim
White Avatar
June 21, 2010 at 1:59 AM
I think you spoke for all of us here- Many Congrats my friend
Marcum Wong Avatar
June 20, 2010 at 11:57 AM
soupmail
Haick Avatar
June 19, 2010 at 8:31 PM
Warm congratulations on your great 2nd Place win in the contest, Joyce! And I enjoy and admire your work! Love, Audrey
Brown Avatar
June 19, 2010 at 11:07 AM
Congratulations on your win in Joe Flach's contest "First Time" Joyce. Love, Carol
Mascarenhas Avatar
June 18, 2010 at 8:00 PM
nice write congrats on your win cheers oscar
Flach Avatar
June 18, 2010 at 6:52 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
Devonshire Avatar
June 18, 2010 at 5:35 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
Guzzi Avatar
June 18, 2010 at 4:39 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!
Sweetheart Avatar
June 18, 2010 at 3:03 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
Null Avatar
June 16, 2010 at 10:30 PM
So true, there is always that "what if" factor. Rather than be critical I leave comments on poetry I do like.....Blessings.... Karla
Blakeley Avatar
June 16, 2010 at 6:28 PM
This is too good and reflects the way I feel..skeered ! LOL
La France Avatar
June 16, 2010 at 5:56 PM
And they are wonderful.. just like this one... love constance
Mehta Avatar
June 16, 2010 at 5:32 PM
I think nearly everyone will have the same thrills ,joys, doubts etc.,Joyce
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