'One-Up-Man-Ship' - Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

Discussing with anyone,
What I perceive to be an obstacle...
Or is on my path to block in opposition,
To do with an understanding I comprehend...
Is to never pursue this route to do again.
No! Not with a hope undivided attention I will get,
With a removing whatever it is that is on my mind.
I refuse to have my sensibilities abused,
With assistance that leaves me looking for an exit.

I have discovered too long ago,
Involving to mention to others in confidence to share...
About that which affected my life personally,
Only opens a door for a competition to start.
And I know I am not the only one,
Who has experienced this with an attempt to end.
Since there was nothing to win but the beginning,
Of a headache.

People seldom offer their suggestions,
To recommend with honest opinions given.
Many seem to want to begin a game to play,
Of 'one-up-man-ship'...
That engages in a verbal outdoing,
As if they are prepared with a detailed list...
That ensures they will stay a jump ahead,
With 'their' issues to highlight instead.

'I hope what I have had to say helps.'

You have no idea how listening to you,
Has been for me therapeutic.