HERE I STAND

"Here I Stand" is a poem that depicts the frustrations of a persistent optimist. True to type, and despite the obvious lack of success, the poem's persona does not give up.

Here I stand, alone

Friendless, in complete denial

That all labor is not gold

 

Here I stand, grieving

No succor from gnawing trauma

Last flickers of joy waning

 

Here I stand, stripped of honor

All life’s work hardly tipping the pan

Scaled against a litany of dreams

 

Here I stand, deceived by hope

Wondering why great efforts yield little

The many tomorrows produce meager fruit

 

Here I stand, mystified

Staring at the mirages of life

Seeking my place in Creation’s purpose

 

Here I stand, again trusting

Believing in tomorrow’s promise

Taken in by others’ still standing