linaewen | Balance

I found this poem on the web, doing a search on discipline -- which was my firm goal for the day -- to shirk all those things that distract me and just work hard until my work is done.

However... after reading this, I think I'll temper that goal with a little fun, a little creativity, and a little time spent with my friends. Balance in all things is the name of the game today.

WANING STRENGTH

How far can one run in that lack of sleep world,
Or keep pushing as their body complains?
What extent can someone go who fears repose,
Who wishes not to miss a single moment in time?
Far, far indeed, but no man of steel is truly so,
No should he be.
The soul requires, needs, is nurtured by,
Those peaceful moments,
When the spark of creativity is given room to grow,
When love is something the heart is allowed to know,
When fun is a word well understood.
Yes, discipline and responsibility are worthy of respect,
But balanced with life and living, truly THAT takes mastery,
Skill beyond the pale,
In a society composed of worshipped workaholics.
Family time has suffered, and look at our stature,
Friendship time is missing, and look at our connectedness,
A world where we must love acquaintances,
As we know none any better for lack of time,
Lack of respect for a world not all labor.
Punch that dutiful time clock,
Crack that harsh whip of finance,
But when your world is cold and lonely as the grave,
Remember, you chose that distance, by forgetting.
Remember, before the late hour comes!

By: Daniel A. Stafford
(C)2000