This Nobody of Renown

Most people aren’t blessed with all the zest Of money, power and fame, But live their lives in “quiet desperation,” As Thoreau once famously claimed. As for me I once believed I was headed toward the stars, But time has taught me well it seems, I didn’t get too far. For I didn’t climb the highest rungs Up the ladder of success, I missed the bar that shows how far “I made it,” more or less. No marquis lights or political fights That history might resound, No Guiness World Records or Olympic Gold Medals Could I claim back then or now. Nor did I unearth some treasure well worth It’s place in future books, No secrets revealed that may have concealed How King Priam might have looked. No pedigrees or higher degrees Of learned education, But a simple man who understands Life’s more meaningful and deeper than one’s station. With memories made in sun and shade I wouldn’t trade for diamonds blue, It’s been a good ride both in and outside That’s made me both old and new… Through this life I surrender to all that’s been rendered, Striven or given to me, The highs and lows, praises and blows, Struggles and troubles between. Miles of travels that left me baffled, Befuddled, bewitched and besieged, By moments uplifting, soul filling and gifting As if this was all meant to be. A plan in the making and all for the taking For this nobody of renown, Invisible me out wandering free The best way I knew how. Bereft of the greatness some others attained Near empty of all but this: The goodness shown by those I’ve known And whose faces and souls I miss. © Terrell Martin, 01/24/2025