The Present (Revised), 11/14 X10 Challenge Response Options

[Mary Boren]

"We are human beings, not human doings." -Neale Donald Walsch

The Present

I questioned life at every turn,
compelled by acts and deeds to earn
a starring role
in mine. Control
tenaciously eluded me.

In time I found a stepping stone
beyond the ego's comfort zone.
It marks the way
from yesterday
into the realm of now, to be.

No longer tossed by whims of fate,
I join the will to co-create
a vibrant here
devoid of fear
that thrives on peace and unity.

The present is a lavish gift.
It comes with hands to gently sift
the wheat from chaff.
Surrender, laugh,
forgive, and live abundantly.

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Original version w/ x10 challenge words in bold.
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I questioned Life at every turn
and wondered if I'd ever earn
a starring role.
Then, bless my soul,
elucidation dawned on me.

Beyond the ego's comfort zone,
there lies a polished stepping stone
that quells disputes,
connecting roots
within the human family tree.

No longer tossed by whims of fate,
I claim the power to co-create
my twilight years,
dissolving fears
and memories. No do, just be.

Accept the Present as a gift
to free us from the past, to sift
the wheat from chaff.
Divide by half
and share this winning recipe.

[merle]

Hi Mary -

I read the original poem and before I could respond, you revised it! I'm pleased you kept the first one posted. I enjoy watching the creative process unfold. Your revision is a smooth ride whereas the first one became a little preachy in the last stanza. Even the title, The Present, with its double meaning, is a fine example of how poetry should read. I feel I will learn a great deal from your writing.