conundrums are stale
in a muted world.
to silence the tongue
never one and done.
to smother the pen
a social injustice.
puzzles with no clues
unfair competition.
awaken the need to
broaden horizons and
open new windows.
define shadows from
behind closed doors.
time numbs while
renewal awaits for
wisdom to sate
the appetite for life
and sup its existence.
© Franci Eugenia Hoffman
A gander at me –
I enjoyed a dedicated career in the insurance industry for over 20 years being rewarded both professionally and personally. Now it’s time for me to follow my dreams by doing things I enjoy…spending time with family, learning, sharing, traveling, writing poetry and encouraging others to pursue their goals.
A throwback to my Tuesday Chatter series, since retired.
Go Dog Go Café 
If we think back to our history lessons and other times when the world was fundamentally reordered, like the two World Wars or the Great Depression, I have to wonder what the world will look like when this is over. As I finally feel like the initial stages of reorganization to this crazy in-determinant time are almost complete in my own life, this poem is a good reminder of what we might make the world on the backside of this crisis. Perhaps we will see learn something about real community and compassion, about real connection and attentiveness. Who knows, either way, I will look forward to reading your wisdom, Eugi!
Stephen
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you, Stephen. What’s interesting, I wrote this in 2017, which most of my Tuesday Chatter series reflected the times of the sixties through the nineties.
Hopefully, we will have more community and compassion but you know the saying or phrase “how soon we forget”.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sadly true… but think of the lasting impact the Great Depression had on some unusual behaviors… like my mom keeping a pantry full of canned goods that we never used…
LikeLiked by 1 person
I remember my mom doing the same. I feel it gives people comfort to know they can be self-sufficient.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Emerson would be proud.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes! This unsettlement in our souls and lives is good stuff – painful, scary, but good!
LikeLiked by 1 person
A real wakeup call!
LikeLike
I like this Eugi – reminds me that often we feel like pawns – having to make sense of what we have no control over.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, Indeed, V.J. Excellent point made!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Quite an impressive selection of words. I really enjoyed this.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! I am glad you enjoyed it. 😉
LikeLike
I love that word ‘conundrum’ Eugenia….. this time last year I sat on the end of my hospital bed, it was time for my discharge….. my world had been turned upside down, and inside out….. my thoughts were a confused mess….. my specialist neurosurgeon sat down next me….. he new about my doubts for the future….. ..
“Are going on your trip to America Ivor”
“I’m not sure Doc’, what do you reckon” I replied
“Well Ivor, I know you’re in a “conundrum’ with what to do
“I don’t think I’m strong enough Doc” I wasn’t confident
“Ivor, you’ve still 5 weeks to go before you step onto the plane”
“That’s the problem Doc, will I be fit enough” I shaking my head
“Don’t worry Ivor… This is the way you are… you won’t the same anymore…. this is as good as it gets Ivor…. If I was you, I would not postpone your trip, Take your chances, enjoy yourself while you can”
I smiled and cried all at once…. and I said “Thanks Doc”…. shook his hand and we had a parting hug. ….Well the rest is history, and history tells me… we must give life our best shot, while we are here…….((Hugs))
LikeLiked by 1 person
So true, Ivor, and had you waited you could be facing a situation like what is happening today. It’s good you traveled when you did.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes… we must try to stay positive….. don’t let doubts fears and cloud our focus….
LikeLiked by 1 person
Now is the time like never before too use wisdom. Great poem Eugenia.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Sadje!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person