Personal Legend

This is a poem I wrote that's in the rhyme scheme and meter of "The Trees" by Joyce Kilmer. It is inspired by The Alchemist, and it is about how everyone has a personal legend. Some pursue it; others do not. Paulo Coelho says that it is important to live out our personal calling even though the process might be painful "because, once we have overcome the defeats--and we always do--we are filled by a greater sense of euphoria and confidence. In the silence of our hearts, we know that we are proving ourselves worthy of the miracle of life." It is also inspired by the parables of Jesus, especially the parable of the talents and the parable of the seeds. I think they might be talking about following your personal legend as well. 

 

Personal Legend, by Catherine Dunn

When given a bright colored seed,
There are two paths where this may lead

Most hold it in their hands and then
Discard it in a cold dark den.

They focus on their other tasks
And what the world around them asks.

However, there are others who
Do take the seed and see it through

They give it water, tender care;
They shield it from the sun's hot glare.

And though their backs do ache with pain,
They feel alive on this good plane

The others wonder what sweet scent
Could cure them of their discontent

They seek out every last perfume
And do not see the trees that blume.