The world,
while it masquerades so,
is not easy or inherently
beautiful. Lives are hard,
like brittle shale
scoured and worn by
waves upon waves.
But through hardship,
intolerance and defiance,
pressure and sheer force of will,
stones can become gems.
And lives
worth the world’s wonder
to see.
Agitation of hands. Strength of words. 
You always write the perfect poem at the perfect time, even if I’ve halfway deserted wordpress.
I have no idea how you do that, but it’s amazing.
(Thanks for sticking around…it keeps me going somedays)
I’m glad I make a difference to someone.
You hang in there mate.
You know, this feels Bukowski but a little more optimistic, not as rough around the edges. ‘Brittle shale’ is perfect. Nicely done.
Interestingly enough
I’ve been reading a lot of him recently.
Glad you approve.