Climbing The Stairs Poem by RIC BASTASA

others have gone there
on the floor
we were once together
on the ground
with the usual beginnings
of hard work
and luck... i observe the rules
they don't
they know something beyond
the rules
the one favored by some
gods
and demigods
they learn the art of chanting
and prayer and
bowing and genuflecting
and offerings
incense and candles and flowers
and praises

i only think of the rules of excellence
like a horse i walk along the streets
briskly and showing mastery
of my route
and agility and grace and
skill of my art
and visions

i climb these stairs
i must be cursed i cannot reach
the second floor
lots of talks and schemes
and tricks

i stay on the ground
surrendering to the dictates
of my own dignity

i get used to this somehow
retaining my own pride
and always
thanking God for what is given
He knows best, I know.

we'll it must be, and now
i don't give a damn.
This ground
is cool.