Comments : A Bird in Hand

  • 7 years ago

    by Ben Pickard

    ...is worth two in the bush.

    Wayne, this is fantastic. Sometimes, it really is the best we can hope for: the bird we have in hand or risk everything trying to capture the two in the bush. But when you can look back and say to yourself honestly that your own dreams have been shelved for the good of your family, I should say that you have achieved a darn site more than many.

    This will receive my nomination for the weekly contest tomorrow when I have my votes back. Not enough poetry is written with this kind of raw honesty.

    All the very best,

    Ben

    • 7 years ago

      by Wayne Gates

      Thank you Ben. I have been worried about my son chasing dreams and I just needed to share it.

  • 7 years ago

    by CJ Maleney

    This is amazing, it took me back to my childhood when things were tight to say the least.

    If your son is chasing dreams then at least he's chasing something unlike mine.

    As parents we worry, it's our job. Kids don't come with an instruction book or manual we just have to wing it as best we can and hope we have done right.

    Regards

    Craig

    • 7 years ago

      by Wayne Gates

      Thank you. They say pain is the great motivator. I couldn't see the forest because all the trees were in the way for many years in my own life. Now I fear my son is lost in the woods. I just hope he is finding his way out. We all choose our path.

  • 7 years ago

    by Brenda

    Wayne, a very honest open write that I am sure wasn't easy to share. We always hope our children will do better, want more than ourselves. When you see them not really reaching for those stars and not living up to
    the potential we know they have we begin to question our own failings as a parent. I have learned that we can only teach them the best way we know how, teach them right from wrong, instill a good work ethic and morals and then hope for the best. The rest is up to them. One of the most heartwarming things I ever heard my step-son say to his dad was, he always thought he was such a d* growing up until he was on his own and it all made sense. I wish you the best. He will find his way.

    • 7 years ago

      by Wayne Gates

      Thank you Brenda for your comments. I just am having a hard time understanding putting visions of grandeur over financial security and stability. He has a college degree and has had great opportunities with good companies, yet he would rather abandon it all to try to make it big in the marijuana business.

  • 7 years ago

    by Naughtymouse

    This write has a lot to say for itself, ironic that it left me speechless.

    A wonderful write here sir.

    • 7 years ago

      by Wayne Gates

      I am grateful for your kind words.

  • 7 years ago

    by Em

    I have read this twice now and both times I was left speechless, I had so much to say in my mind but I just couldn't write it fast enough. Job well done I say.

  • 7 years ago

    by PETER EDWARDS

    This is a touching poem Wayne. A nice write!

  • 7 years ago

    by Ren

    A truly touching piece!

  • 6 years ago

    by mossgirl19

    It takes great wisdom to understand your son is different from you and leaving him on his way but still supporting him. Experience has indeed taught you well. What a lovely and touching piece.

    • 6 years ago

      by Wayne Gates

      Thank You, Mel.
      I appreciate the compliment.