STAND PROUD

STAND PROUD

So you will not stand proud like I told you
At the end of the long day.

The streets are filled with pedestrians
On their way home with slung shoulder bags.

And you walk, shoulders bent, in the afternoon shadows.

Cower, cower, and the night will engulf you
Before you chance upon your undisturbed sleep.

Tower, tower, and the stars will romance you,
Garlanding your head with their gleamings,
Protecting you in your dreamings.

Don’t be a bitter child,
Deep in the sunset you know that all roads lead to death.

Don’t be a stupid child,
Deep in the floodwaters you know you breathe your last breath.

Take the high road, with the eagle ensconced in your eyes.
Say goodbye to tears and the weepings of fools.
Wake to bathe in the early morning
In some enchanter’s magic pool.

Stand proud, like I told you, at the end of the long day.
The streets will fill with pedestrians
On their way home with slung shoulder bags.

You will walk in the dying sun with your new soul.

-Bruce Potts
Copyright 2008
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED