Who We Want To Be

A traveler's search for greatness ends with wisdom.

On his knees the traveler sat

He took off his gloves and his grimy hat.

Weary he was yet merry he halted

For his long and tedious quest had ended. 

Far and wide in search he had traveled

Many mysteries and legends he had unraveled. 

What he sought lay in front of him in the wilderness

What he sought was greatness. 

He wanted songs that called him the best

He wanted to be the world's greatest.

Pushing aside the foliage his dirty hand crept forwards

Because, in the dirt, covered by the leaves were words.

As he read the words with shock

He realized their meaning was as solid as rock. 

"True greatness we shall never achieve

A place in the ground we shall without fail receive"

Author's Note

I kept the language simple. My intention was for the last line to hit every man true and hard.

Reviews

[Confuser]

Ashish: You have definitely achieved your goal in the last line, so profound, wise and true. Who We Want To Be, the most important decision in one's life. I so desire many will read and absord this inspiring poem; containing sage advise. However, as you point out with riveting directness, desire can be tricky; it's best to think very carefully. They may get their wish. Simple language, doesn't matter, your words have such power, and your talent can never be denied. The poem's beginning as with every line and word is perfection, an incredible writing flowing perfectly. Your writing shows the desire for so many, a majority of the faults that occur, every second of every day. What a teacher you could be. It's beautiful. Please continue to write, so I can be encouraged, as others will to be empathetic and compassionate, not greedy, ego maniacs that do not understand the true reasons we are on this earth. Such an insightful poem. Thank you...dale

[Ashish Hegde]

Thank you for the review. I was inspired to write this poem after reading the story "How much land does a man require" by Leo Tolstoy. It is a dark, humorous tale that tells the bitter and simple truth. I suggest you read it if you haven't already. You will like it.

[Confuser]

My pleasure...many moons have passed, sounds like a philosophical writing...I will do as you suggest; I've read one of his novels, and about him, but it's been awhile. No wonder you were inspired; what brillance he possessed, what a legacy. (d)