To Be a Man

The wish of growing boy it seems Can never come true fast enough, But then it does and yet somehow You find yourself still wondering, Amazed to find you hold the wheel. But thoughts are gone you lack right stuff, Past tense real fear of failure now, You wake to truth that slumbering Achieved as much as devil’s deal Man’s best laid plans just tie with dreams. No need to set your soul aflame, Nor yet embellish what is true. The gifts of those who still aspire Are same as those who've found their peace. Confused by how events conspired To lay the future’s claim on you? One gift divorced: from your attire, Fair testimony’s legalese, Or accolades by poem inspired... Your manhood simply speaks its name! Brian Johnston July 31, 2015