Lesson From My Swollen Ankles Poem by Obed dela Cruz

I walked for a long period of time,
Though it was shorter than my previous walks–
Just a brief journey to look for a church
Within the city of Marikina.

I was looking for that church because I
Wanted to arrange something for my birthday;
But the direction was not clear enough
That’s why I had to walk a long, round way.

By God’s grace I was able to reach it,
I was able to talk with their volunteers.
I’m pretty sure it was a good meeting
And I’m thankful there are people like them.

On my way home I had to walk again–
This time, it was because I just wanted to.
I wanted to enjoy the surrounding
And familiarize myself with the place.

I reached home. I was glad for what had been.
But when I removed my shoes I noticed that
My ankles were bleeding, they were painful.
Then I looked at myself and wondered why–

I simply walked a few kilometres,
Shorter than the distance runs I had before.
Perhaps I just walked too much for that day.
I didn’t expect it to turn like that.

And so, after much thought, I realized
That even though my feet can bear distances,
Even though I’m used to go longer miles
I should still be prepared for shorter ones.

Because it’s not how far I had endured,
Nor how far I think I can or plan to go
But how prepared I am for anything,
And it requires me to prepare myself.