If winning was everything
We would never improve
from the experience of losing.
We would never celebrate
gradual improvement, growing strength
And innovation.
We would never know greatness
from perseverance
Sustained over time.
We would all be Spartans
and yet,
they are all extinct.
We would never know empathy or humility
or the exquisite but fleeting
euphoria of victory.
We would not have democracy
or the rule of law
We would not have civilisation.
If winning was everything
our arrogance would
grow with contempt,
We in turn would become suspicious
devaluing the achievement
relegating the occasion to the mundane,
And in gradual despondency we would not be
challenged and with growing disquiet become
dejected by the increasing burden, and lose.
If winning was everything
a fools paradise would resemble
a dark and ruined utopia.
If winning was everything
anarchy would prevail
in all of nature.
If wining was everything
All the fish in the oceans
Would be the same size.
If winning was everything
We would never ever commemorate
Anzac Day or Rememberance Day.
If winning was everything
We would never posthumously
Recognise the fallen.
If winning was everything
Every game in all sports
Would end in a draw.
If winning was everything
We would never bother
To offer comfort.
Or to offer our sincere commiserations
To our brave and gutsy opponents
Or to ever offer encouragement.
If winning was everything
All contests would have remained
Battles to the death.
Excellent piece of poetry - its not the winning but the taking part that counts.
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
mr draper you are not only a poet but wise words of much significance are entwined in this intelligent write... bravo dear poet....karen