Freedom And Responsibility Poem by Doris Cornago

Freedom And Responsibility



Long have I traveled but none have I seen

As lovely as a quivering bud on a tree

That looked so old it might as well be dead

But the bud made it look so potential…


What now I know of life and keep knowing

Freedom and responsibility walk together

Nobody’s looking but there’s a nagging

Feeling of wanting something better for all…


The choice is yours to take whatever goes

Ignominy or glory, the path's not closed

Whether you run or walk it, nobody's looking

Take a hand or arm if offered - but do go on…


Sometimes you wish to step back awhile

Sit by the road and watch the world go by

But you just cannot, mind’s a whirl on things

To your left and to your right goes life…


Do not make excuses, it does not matter

Try rather make a steady step each way

Your choice if you falter, or go slower

Nobody is keeping track of your progress…


Life might have taken its toll on strength

Or taken away all the glory of yesteryears

As long as heart beats and voice is not stilled

You go on and on through more pages…

POET'S NOTES ABOUT THE POEM
This poem is written on the occasion of Nelson Mandela's death. The poet compares her life's work to this great man and realizes how much more could be done if she does not step 'falteringly'. There's a season for pausing and another for making progress - so there's really a choice if you take it. The poem is unfinished as the poet wants everybody to add to it their own decisions and experiences.
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