Flight Training Poem by Curtis Johnson

Flight Training Curtis Johnson
Like most of God's human creatures, I too came with special features.

As if my tongue was tied with cords, I did not come with a library of words.

In some respects, this has been a handicap. But I started to write; and it helps to fill the gaps.

And in 'many a way', I learned how to fly. I was always the 'Give it a try' kind of guy.

O, indeed, I was rather quiet and shy, but had strong enough wings to fly.

Certainly, I'll never get a plane off the ground; But maybe I can write a poem that astounds.

Maybe I was never the aggressive or assertive type; and perhaps I could not reach the mountain heights.

I neither dreamed nor desired to make a jet take flight. I find pleasure in helping the burdens of others become light.

I could always hold my own, standing for the right; but never was I the life of the party, or a socialite.

It matters little if I'm challenged or wounded along the way; But I'm pleased to have lifted others who had gone astray.

Learning to 'take off' and fly is only part of the equation. Perhaps learning to 'land safely' requires more education.

What If I incurred heavy scares and barely landed on a wing and a prayer? Yet, I shall be rewarded for trying and finishing well; not sitting with a stare.
04102017 cj PS Contest
*According to Boeing statistical studies,16% of fatal accidents occur during takeoff and initial climb, while 29% occur during the approach and landing. (USA TODAY, August 26,2013)