I sat with Despair
She held my hand and led me
Into sinking sand
Where I met disappointment
Doubt and disbelief
I watched my dreams fading
Near Disappearing
And then I felt a presence
A Hand lifting and leading
Me out to a better place
A land of hope and purpose
Where the Light shines
Upon dreams making them new
A firm foundation
Where no Disses can dwell
An encouraging
Place full of life where
I’m building a good future
Double Choka
I shot a cruel word into the air
Hitting the tablet of a heart
It crushed and laid it bare
I shot a kind word into the air
With loving thought and care
A hope and dream it did impart
Rhyme
Words have power to destroy or build up.
Think before you speak.
I wrote this poem, sadly, because of a conversation with a person who is dear to me that was experiencing feelings of giving up because of recent circumstances in his life. As we talked, he asked me what empathy meant. I explained it’s meaning. His tears moved me to realize that is what he was looking for, and not finding it, he was too weak to continue his search. The poem is written to express his feelings. However, I have hope that my actions and prayers will be the helping hand he needs at this time.
My mouth wants to speak
But not a sound will come forth
At a loss for words
My heart cries out in despair
The Creator hears and responds
Tanka
Leona J. Atkinson
08-13-13
Leonas Lines--Poetry Plus 