Elevations

A meditation on states of consciousness

We live for the peaks,

But dwell mostly on

One plateau or another.

Yet both of these,

And the valleys, too,

Are but part of the same

Ground, seen from

Different elevations.

All are ever within reach,

Whether we grasp or not.

Author's Note

With thanks to Robert Browning in the last verse

Reviews

[AJNJ]

True that. Human potential mostly goes utilised. We are capable of a lot in the face of adversity. Even better when the going is good. We often do little. I put it down to wrong priorities and ennui.

[John the Baptist]

Thanks. I think you're onto something with that wrong priorities observation. Many have their values distorted.

[AJNJ]

If you see the people in my country who are still thinking this is an opportunity to stand chatting around and socialising...that’s what I meant by wrong priorities 😢

[Gee]

I'm a middle ground man myself, getting none to excited at good news and not overly fussed about bad. If I can't control what's happening I am not going to fret.
Hope you are keeping well

[John the Baptist]

Thanks. Sound attitude, otherwise you're going to get jerked one way, then another by the news. I look at things this way, too.

[barleygirl]

Your poem, interestingly juxtaposing the ups with the downs of life, reminds me that it's only a matter of judgement, as to what one considers an "up" or a "down". Some of my lowest points in life taught me some of my greatest attributes, & your point is strongly made about this (((HUGS))) Fondly, Margie

[John the Baptist]

Thanks, Margie. You have grasped my point. Even in dire situations we can choose our stance, even if it is "Let it be."

[Chris Shaw]

Peaks, plateaus or valley's, that sums up life perfectly. I am happy to plateau, delighted if I reach a few peaks and know that from time to time I will dwell in in the depths of the valley. Short piece, with much wisdom in it. Keep safe John.

Chris

[John the Baptist]

Thanks, Chris. I think most of us inhabit various plateaus. And sometimes one time peaks can degenerate. It's all a matter of awareness.
PS: You stay safe, too.

[jacob erin-cilberto]

and sometimes the valleys are much more accessible...
and some of us find those much more often than the peaks.
j.

[John the Baptist]

Thanks, J. You are right about those valleys. But sometimes regarding them without resistance can cause them to upgrade.