Notes About The Poem

9/10/2025 for This or That, Vol 36 Poetry Contest sponsored by Edward Ibeh

Through Life's Clenched Jaw

How many times have I been,
or perceived to have been,
the victim of cruelty or injustice,
which I tolerated,
as I felt it was necessary to survive
or, if not to survive,
to maintain a minimum standard of living -
as a child,
as a sick person,
as a subordinate in a corporation?

How did it make me feel?
Angry.
How did it work out when I expressed my anger?
Poorly.
Hence, much of my life was lived
through a clenched jaw.

Which doesn't seem pleasant.
Is there another way?
Philosophy?
Religion?
Forgiveness?
Acceptance?
Reassessing when I must compromise?
Learning a new way to communicate -
civil, yet uncompromising?
I wonder.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2025

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Etgen-Baker Avatar
September 10, 2025 at 4:59 PM
much to ponder in your words, David. Most of my life I've been that 'jaw clencher'--doing so sometimes pains me so. Like you, I wonder if there's a better, more balanced way. sigh
Crandall Avatar
September 11, 2025 at 1:21 PM
Thanks, Sara, I suppose a lot of us have that experience.
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