0192 Abundance Poem by Michael Shepherd

0192 Abundance

Rating: 2.2


I am overwhelmed
by the abundance
in my poverty;
the riches that I find
in knowing that I own nothing

I am dazzled
at the ugliness
in my mind;
seeing
the beauty in my soul

I am humbled
by the truth of my lies
when I understand
that to lie
one must first know truth

I am radiant
in the invisibility
of goodness
when I close my eyes
to all else


(to Rilke)

COMMENTS OF THE POEM
Philip Record 23 September 2005

Nice going, Michael! ! We could all use a bit of this wisdom-remember to see past the illusions!

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Maggie Flanagan-Wilkie 23 September 2005

This reminds me of Rilke's voice in 'Letters to a Young Poet'. It could use a little tightening where it starys a little into the cliche, but it has great possiblities.

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Raynette Eitel 23 September 2005

Michael, it seems we have had many poems lately with paradox. This is the ultimate in each, carefully-written stanza. My favorite is the fourth stanza, but the others build to it. Thanks for this. Raynette

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Michael Shepherd 23 September 2005

That's really amusing, JC - I felt exactly the opposite! But thanks!

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Mahnaz Zardoust-Ahari 23 September 2005

Beautiful Michael...Loved it! Don't judge the book by its cover....Nice!

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Michael. Michael. Michael. This is the loveliest poem ever! I know Rilke is smiling right now.

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Michael Shepherd

Michael Shepherd

Marton, Lancashire
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