On Purpose Poem by James Daniel Gabriel

Live as though it is your choice, not your obligation-
But be obliged to live.
Responsibility for the soul you embody is given
To you for a small time and,
As a gift not a consequence.
Circumstances merely define your potential.
Realize that adversity creates nothing more than the opportunity for greatness.
While we all are given the same world,
We have the same rewards and the same penalties.
In all this every dream is attainable even if only in your dreams.
Each of us must aspire in order to achieve,
And it takes a conscious choice to do either.
Make mistakes, but do not be made from one.
Take chances, but give them just as well.
In this, truth and fortune are the fruits of wisdom-
For nothing has ever been gained that was not lost to someone before you.
Believe, as you will one day lose it too.