there was once a man who was skillful with his sword
but in the comfortable absence of war he had developed a debilitating languor
...
A man wrongfully convicted of a crime was in jail serving a long sentence. He shared a cell with a self-confessed conman. Over time the two naturally developed a mutual respect so one day as they shared their experiences the conman remarked:
"I'm convinced of your innocence. I really believe you. You couldn't fool me. Hoodwinking people has been my lifelong profession. Your predicament is nothing new. I've met a few in my time, who like you have had to endure similar injustices. But what baffles me is that each and every one of them always expressed immense anger - justifiably so of course. But I sense not a hint of resentment towards anyone, not even the system responsible for landing you in this god forsaken place. So tell me, how do you manage to put up with it all and do it so graciously too, knowing you did absolutely nothing to deserve this."
...
The best way, I find, to further a goal or realise a vision is to focus on the story. What one wishes to express - through the sort of life they lead.
And if there's one ingredient crucial in the cultivation of creativity, then surely, it is that quality of being honest with self. Personal aggrandisement never carries true merit; and to take the high road requires a great deal of humility.
...
It was just moments into the discourse that he realised he couldn't win the debate. Clearly he'd made a grave mistake underestimating her.
His demagoguery was inferior in the face of her diligent diplomatic displays. The delivery of her doctrine made her ideas appear as the guiding principles for how her party would achieve its goals rather than a prescription of ideals. That's what made all the difference to the citizens who'd long since been fed up of listening to the empty promises made time and time again by cunning politicians.
...
good credit begets goodwill and therefore keeps one in good standing
it's a show of dependability that dresses up future uncertainties
good merit warrants good understanding
...
he had no problem sharing his pillows -
which had given comfort to heads with all kinds of hairs,
...
Petrie's Pyramid
what was once layered with love
and sealed with blood
became fragile and weak
because circumstances had made for a new sequence
that chipped away at their greatness
until there was little left to uncover
except small relics
© Heath Muchena