Tenacity Poem by RONY PATRA

Tenacity….that eight-letter word
Everybody stakes claim to it,
But few actually possess it.
It makes those few stand apart
From their countless compatriots.

What is tenacity?
Is it having the courage
To be a jawan in the Indian Army
Stationed in the glacial world of Siachen,
Stationed at sub-zero temperatures,
With no family by his side,
Braving intruders, snow,
And inclement weather?

What is tenacity?
Is it having to put up
With being the poorest student in class
Even after putting in his best effort,
And subjected to much derision
By parents and friends,
And still keeping at it
In search of that elusive good result?

What is tenacity?
Is it having the nerve
To be a goalkeeper in a soccer game,
Safeguarding not only the goalpost
But also the dignity of his team,
And facing insurmountable criticism
Whenever he concedes a goal,
Still keeping his sanity intact?

Tenacity….that eight-letter word
Everybody stakes claim to it,
But few actually possess it.