(Entry for the Rumi Quotes Poetry Contest, sponsored by Sotto Poet, submitted October 13, 2025)
"Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself."
Back in my younger days I wanted to make an impact, with my skills and tact, to impress with knowledge and facts, hoping I could attract young minds and bring out their untapped potential. I thought "I want to be of service", but when I saw the response, I got nervous, often confronting interference ignorance and indifference. My idealism slowly faded, replaced by something more jaded. My desire to impress often led to stress to the point where, I guess, life became a bit of a mess! As I got older, I realized that it was I who had to change and stop trying to rearrange my world and all within it. I wanted to stop feeling deflated and to enjoy life a little less complicated. It took quite a while to achieve perspective, but a benefit of aging is the chance to be reflective and introspective. In spite of what a few have said I know that I am filled with good and can rise above any falsehood. My life is still a work in progress, and my goal of self-improvement is a very enriching process.
Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.
Be the first to comment on this poem. Encourage this poet.