Notes About The Poem

I have often been called too nice because I drop everything to help others. I've been told I let people walk all over me and one time I was told I was a tool because I let everyone use me. Based on an actual conversation though it was much longer and not rhyming. 

Tool


I was once misfortuned with being called a tool
by a man who believed I was most often the fool.
By a soul who only ever acted on his own behalf
I was told that I'm often used, simply do the math.

I played along with his insult as it was meant to be
by showing mock indignation at this thing he said to me.
I gave him then a ponderous look, and then I dully said...
"yes, but am I a useful tool? or am I broken then instead?"

He huffed and gave me a look, "you know what I meant"
Responded I, "I bet I'm new. not broken, worn or bent!"
He ignored me for the moment, his annoyance was clear.
"maybe I'm a cracker for nuts! A bottle opener for beer!?"

"Or yes! a wrench used for nuts, bolts, pipe fittings or more..."
He glared at my next words, "hopefully not from a dollar store"
I nudged him then, smiled some, "oh don't get all mud stuck"
"Hey! what if I'm chains or a tow-rope.. pull you out with any luck."

In his impatience, he yelled, "STOP!" He was looking rather mad.
I left it alone, got tight lipped, but oh what fun I just had.
Stop myself? "Ha!" I blurted then "I'm wily in my crafts"
"If I'm a tool then so are you, I'm using you for laughs"
Copyright © | Year Posted 2017

Poem

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Buck Avatar
June 20, 2017 at 8:34 PM
Jesse: What a great write. Mine aren't usually this "complicated" or well written but it is certainly in my "style" of story telling. Thank you for sharing with all of us on the soup. Keep them coming. oldbuck
Zerlaut Avatar
July 8, 2017 at 1:08 AM
It was one of few random moments I actually stand up for myself. I tend to let others say what they will, and let it go. Thank you for reading.. glad to have your thoughts, Oldbuck.
Pinet Avatar
May 2, 2017 at 1:04 PM
Your feelings surface, and carry the emotional force behind your words. This poem flows well, and carries a message aimed at the heart. Emile. #7
Zerlaut Avatar
May 9, 2017 at 10:01 AM
Thank you, Emile. We often aren't aware of how our words can harm others.. but more that some people don't care if their words cause harm. That always makes me sad even more, when someone doesn't care that it hurts others.
Dietrich Avatar
May 1, 2017 at 3:26 PM
OH SNAP!!!! That was a really great final ending , dude. I LOVE this. SEVEN
Zerlaut Avatar
May 1, 2017 at 3:34 PM
lol, thank you, Andrea. I blame it on my sarcastic and mischievous mother.. she taught me well.
Teagan Avatar
May 1, 2017 at 8:15 AM
This really made me smile, Jesse. I've never been called a "tool" but I have been called a pushover, just for being "too nice" I'm glad you stood up to that guy! I love the ending ... using him for laughs :) You ROCK!
Zerlaut Avatar
May 1, 2017 at 3:32 PM
Becca, you are the farthest thing from a pushover I've ever met. Compassionate and steadfast in your loyalty to friends and family. I adore that in you. I'm glad the poem made you smile, it made me pretty pleased with myself at the time when I turned it back on him.
Capitano Avatar
May 1, 2017 at 4:09 AM
Great response to a bully, love your humour and your ability to laugh at yourself. Keep smiling, we need more tools like you.
Zerlaut Avatar
May 1, 2017 at 5:30 AM
Thank you Phil. Glad you like it. lol
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