Despite

I was not designed to be forced. I will breathe after my own fashion. Let us see who is the strongest. - Thoreau

I see the leaves.

Run my calloused fingers over the bark.

My poem is not a tree.

Its what lives within me.

Against the grain.

Despite life's pain.

My tears have long since run dry.

But not the reasons to cry.

Aiming the camera at the wrong thing won't break the lens.

Won't steal true friends or write cruel ends.

Large breasts might attract but will eventually sag.

Waving a relenting, white flag.

I'll scribble my graffiti wherever the Hell I please.

Especially cast down upon praying knees.

Wearing a funny suit won't make you a clown.

Nor will confronting truth steal a false crown.

Living in an asylum doesn't make you crazy.

Refusing to go along for the ride doesn't make you lazy.

It may seem cliche,

but it's really the only way.

As sure as dark is night and

light is day.

With a song in my heart and feet to move.

Its okay.

I've got my frayed, crumpled ticket in hand so

I guess I will.

I think I might.

Stay.

Despite ...

Author's Note

"A name pronounced is the recognition of the individual to whom it belongs. He who can pronounce my name aright, he can call me, and is entitled to my love and service." - Thoreau