Is This Still Me?

January 15, 2020 V.J. Knutson38 Comments

Was that really me
fought for feminine rights,
eleven-years-old
persistent to the win?

And was that me
lied about her age
strapped on work clothes
bore responsibility?

And did you know her
that obstinate teen
who defied tradition
and chased an education?

Where did she go,
a faint memory now,
how life tamed her,
taught her subservience

to bury her light
in the shadow of men’s
dreams, that toil should be
selfless, and love for other.

Listen, and you will hear
her echo, faint but growing,
the sound of a mind burning,
the laughter of a soul on fire.

(For Reena’s Exploration challenge: Was that really me?, and Eugi’s Weekly prompt: laughter. Image from personal collection.)

aging · life · Love · poetry · writing

Together, Hope

December 30, 2019December 26, 2019 V.J. Knutson23 Comments

Aged and well worn –
history and family
have left their marks –
weakness surfaces.

I tug at the imaginary
unravel essential core –
hearts burdened hide
gilded truths

Uncovering, a collaborative task
housing a trove of potential –
optimism and hope within,
always more room for growth.

(Image from personal collection)

aging · change · creativity · culture · life · poetry · recovery · writing

Underestimated

December 2, 2019 V.J. Knutson23 Comments

Novice, a word that negates
experience, knowledge, merit –
capability under suspicion.

I novice myself frequently,
as if vulnerability is a sideline
and humility commands denigration.

A tired and weary state –
yes, this is me, new and willing
to learn, but I am not novice.

So before you judge, adjust
your professional spectacles,
snub my potential, hear this:

Value is immeasurable –
unique contributions
enhance collective offerings.

(Reena’s Exploration challenge this week is based on “The Story of An Hour” which challenges us to examine our life and limitations. I dream over and over again that I have returned to teaching only to find that the years I have put in have been negated by my absence and I have to begin again. Starting over is not a new theme in my life, but my attitude about is finally changing, as represented in the poem. Image from personal collection.)

aging · creativity · poetry · travel · writing

Desert

November 29, 2019November 21, 2019 V.J. Knutson15 Comments

Take me to the desert
with mountains at our side;
walk with me in shadows
let nature be our guide.

We’ll stroll amongst the cacti
pay homage to the quails;
take me to the desert,
help me gather tales.

The seasons are passing,
we’re running out of time;
take me to the desert;
heal this heart of mine.

(Desert first appeared here in November 2018. As Winter blows in around us, I think longingly of our time spent in warmer climates. Image from personal collection.)