Gaining Wisdom
As in a city,
lost, walking round in circles -
pacing the same streets.
My true place to be
lay on the next block over.
But I never knew.
I chose to wander
too proud to ask directions
most could have given.
Living in the now
is useless, if not mindful
of the guide inside. (who knows when to ask)
In my early years,
my course was never steady -
to and fro like wind.
Sudden adulthood -
Youth wasted, indecision -
The game now for keeps.
Mistakes everywhere,
bankruptcy ensued, all kinds.
I slashed and I burned.
Illness, poor choices.
The fruit? A cataclysm.
Near death, I lay grim.
Like some mythic man,
I refused to die prostrate.
My mission was clear.
It seems that wisdom
is a sliver of pale light -
Waxing and waning
Be still, be mindful.
The light becomes a beacon -
forget; it grows dim
Age, pain, survival,
can teach important lessons -
If one can let go.
Let go of yourself.
Live for the rest of the world
Find the empathy.
Park Avenue South, Charles Socci 2003
