I read your words.
I admit I was speechless, flabbergasted.
Indicating this I left, but it did not leave me.
I communicated my thoughts, it still does not leave me.
I don't see you that way.
Black, white, slim, fat, these are the containers we live in.
If you are true in your words,
if you seek to share the measure of you,
your soul and mind more beautiful than the most rare substance,
then I am pleased beyond all limits.
That is where all the really exquisite things are.
For this is the you I seek,
this is the you that makes my pulse race and my heart quake.
Defining yourself as such made my soul weep.
Have a care.
Speak kindly of the heart and soul so precious to many.
Now I think "Who am I to ask this of you?"
In the cosmic scheme of things am I anyone?
Ahhh, questions, questions, questions
I always come back to the fact that
I don't see you that way.
It has never been a part of my life and
I like to think we have moved beyond it.



Comments: 38
Great poem.
Did it work out?
I don't know, what do you think.
I think either not at all or it was just wishful thinking on your part and you let it ride?
Maybe I will find out. We shall see.
questions, questions........they seem to always be there Chana........wonderful poem....
Thank you Solskin! Life is such a question.
Chana, beautifully written. I enjoyed it very much.
Thank you Dana!
Great poem. We all have such words to raom inside us.
Good wishes, forever
Kushal, not quite sure if I quite got it. Thank you for the compliment, much appreciated!
You got it.
This is a true poem.
I can't stand poetry that pic is spectacular!
Sorry Jeff, maybe next time.
Painfully rendered still leaving the questions tho?
Spencer, "painfully" was not exactly what I was going for. Maybe with friendship or affectionately, something more along those lines. I always have more questions.
Maybe my sensitivity level is set too high right now. I will read again.
Racism is a horrible fact of a weak society. Am I reading into this, or is it a compassionate piece against racism? It is beautifully written as only you could because you're so sensitive. The graphic is GORGEOUS! Thank you for posting to our group.
Sometimes the words we call ourselves can be every bit as bad as the words others call us, even if we use them in jest. This brings back a memory, I actually stood there.
I have come a long way, but even now, I occasionally find myself downing me, when I need to focus on the real issue at hand. I know what you mean on that one!
Lisa, as a poet you know that words are powerful things. They have strength inside them. Yes, I know all about the "only if you let them" thing, but... I am just not quite sure how to say what I wish to say. How would you feel if you heard me calling another member of my minority a slur particular to our minority, even if it was in jest?
Wow! I am in awe of your writing my dear. Very spirited.
Wonderful and intense writing. More people need to ask the right questions, and wait to hear the full answer!
The struggle to rise above the crass so that we can judge and love one another based on our individual conduct and the compassion in our hearts is one of the eternal subjects for a poet, I believe. Likewise, I also enjoyed the deeply personal nature of the work and the fact that you communicated your emotions directly and didn't use any highflown language. Its a very honest work.
Thank you Jason. I often wonder how others can write the way they do, I marvel at their ability, but I can only write as I do.
The way we define ourselves--a powerful concept. To think that how we define ourselves impacts on the way others see us or wish to see us is food for thought. Well written, Chana.
Labels. Definitions. Preconcepts. Prejudices. And when only we get rid of them all?...
BTW, Chanochka, to write "as you do" is probably the ONLY way to write a poetry worthy of reading and attention... writing straight from the heart.
Love ya - S.
Hi Chana
I too am a member of a minority and slurs come thick and fat. From many sources. I no longer ask questions. I climbed mountains, swam in lakes and walk with hunger in Paris until I knew what I wanted. I look into eyes and I see the answers that I may or may not like. Whatever the answer to my question, I smile because I know this...there is one who's eyes will reflect my deepest thoughts. I know that I'll find those eyes.
This too I have learned. Most minorities have more to offer than many majorities. They sing better, they dance better and they smile more often.
There is still hope... You weave your thougts beautifully (does he deserve it?).
Haim, friendship with a person that you feel presents their heart as true is always worth it.
I agree Chana, a true heart is worth it. It may not be yours to have but worth it nonetheless.
I really liked this, Chana!
I'd like the entire WORLD to read this and understand it, chana..... it is beautiful, deep, and ever so true! we all bleed red......
Penni, I have to tell you in all the comments I have received, I feel in my heart that yours is by far the kindest. Thank you so very much, I am...overwhelmed!
sometimes one questions too much and we can't forget that we are never too old to take some things on faith....
You've inspired me dear friend! I think I have a new short story based on this poem's title. Thanks dear!! I love your style by the way.
Thanks for posting to my group, Anythingwriting