A Discarded Dream Poem by David Harris

A Discarded Dream

Rating: 5.0


A life in writing is all I wanted
I watched other friends reach
pinnacles I could only dream about.
Their writing shone
like bright stars
as mine just gathered dust.
Rejected time and time again
The more I wrote
The more the rejections grew,
until in the end I looked at what I had
and the years I for-fitted
searching, scrambling for a dream

Every glimmer of hope,
and there were plenty
seemed to crumble
and like sand slip through my fingers.
In the end after my mentor and friend died.
The only person to encourage me
when I was filled with despair
something within in me died as well.

I looked back at what I called
all those wasted years.
I then gave up the one thing
that gave my life some meaning.
Discarded it as a child would a broken toy.
The dream I had was broken,
un-repairable so I thought.
I declined to be a nobody
without any future promised land.
Giving up without even taking a stand.

The years tumbled by
and I found much to my surprise
there was no longing left within my eyes.
The faith I had in myself
also died a lonely death.
The love for what I wanted to do
withered without repair.
I put my pen down
I swore for the last time.
No more would I pursue the dream
that had consumed me

Therefore, down the road
I went swearing never to return.
For years that promise I kept.
The fire flickered and dimmed,
but somehow never died
for deep within the embers
a small flame still flickered alive.
A chance encounter,
a request to read someone else’s work
and comment of two was enough.

To ignite the flame
to burn brighter than before.
Awakening a dormant dream
that had been cast aside.
The dream then flourished
with no ending in sight.
Everyday it awakens more.
Therefore, for those who read
what happen to me
don’t discard your hopes and dreams,
for one day you’ll turn a corner
and those dreams will come true.


9 January 2008

COMMENTS OF THE POEM
Bill Smith 09 January 2008

how many share your dream David, how many wish upon wish, liked this, a good write with something to think about smiffy

0 0 Reply
Linda Ori 09 January 2008

Sometimes we are our own worst critics. And sometimes, it's just not the right time. I find that my personal life often dictates what I write, and either it's not worth the writing, or it's great! Sometimes we need to take the time to mellow and breathe like a fine wine. I, for one, am so glad you picked up that pen again - you are a joy to read, David, and you have so much to say worth reading! Hugs, Linda :) xxx

0 0 Reply
Bonnie Harding 09 January 2008

We always seem to think everyone writes better or can relate to others better then ourselves, , , , , , , , just like everyone that reads this thinks you are 'the better writer'LOL

0 0 Reply
JoAnn McGrath 09 January 2008

Well as I scrolled back through the comments...Linda beat me to my lines...I can only add...that I thank God that you chose to write again...and that you were here and was one of the first to comment on me...and that is were our friendship began...I am so much a better person...better writer...because of you...you have inspired me beyond what I could have ever attained...thank you BIG BRUV

0 0 Reply
Aine Ní Leidhin 12 January 2008

Sometimes the coincidence of events that seem related show the tendency and capacity for self-repair and auto-regulation. Kind regards Aine

0 0 Reply
Sandra Fowler 22 January 2008

Your dream is alive and well.Write on, my gifted friend. Warmest regards, Sandra

0 0 Reply
Alison Cassidy 20 January 2008

I feel almost biblical saying this, but the seed cannot grow until it lands in just the right place with water, soil and sunlight. And there is something else - that you poem enunciates so clearly - the time must be ripe for the germination. Interestingly, as one also born in 1945, I had no such dream, ever and came upon writing almost by accident eighteen months ago. An honest and humble account of a poet's journey. And we're all glad you finally made it. love, Allie ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

0 0 Reply
Shannon Wright 17 January 2008

David- This has whet my appetite to read more of what you've written. -shannon

0 0 Reply
Duncan Wyllie 13 January 2008

Glad to see that your art made it through the rain You have so much to be proud of David Shout it from the roof tops if you have to But know this I for one have found a closeness through your writes And you have shared much inspiration with me Take care Love duncan X

0 0 Reply
Meggie Gultiano 12 January 2008

And that's the spirit, David..i thank God for you, i have found you, and you have pursued my dream. you have lifted up my spirit, and you are a part of me already..i cannot think of another word to describe you, your dedication, your selflessness...i can only say..You are a man of God, the anointed one.. i love you David my friend, and i care for you..yes, i am.. Love and hugs, Meggie

0 0 Reply
READ THIS POEM IN OTHER LANGUAGES
David Harris

David Harris

Bradfield, England
Close
Error Success