When The Testing Comes Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

In 1952...
I took my first steps on a stage.
The Bushnell Memorial Auditorium...
As it was called in those days.

And today in 2008,
I look back and ask myself...
What steps did I make,
I least appreciate.

And today I can honestly say...
I've been blessed in every way.
And there is not one step I've taken,
I regret.

The obstacles and challenges were not easy.
Nor having to be patient,
With those who purposedly stood on my path.
Believing I had no identity.
And I was some kind of test!
I had been for them.
And today I am still for others.
And when the testing comes...
I am not the one who fails!