Up From A Downbeat Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

Up from a downbeat.
And cooling off,
From that kind of heat.
Self destructive and defeating.

Up from a downbeat.
And that 'vibe' it sends.
Had me seeking another rhythm.
With a desire to have the old one,
End.

I had to leave discouragement.
Criticisms heard.
And folks spreading gossip.
Just for the enjoyment of it.

I had to leave behind...
Those with minds living to satisfy,
Lives restricted to a negativity.
Without exploring,
Unlimited possibilities.
I realized my own eyes were closed,
To opportunities...
Surrounding me.

Up from a downbeat.
To see it clear,
I alone had made that choice.
I alone had chosen to hear,
Voices rejoicing...
A negativity to accept.
And 'they' chose not to leave.
But I live to hear another rhythm.
One more up from a downbeat.
Less droaning to moan it,
Allowed to continue on.