Rise

On this Thankful Thursday,
and during a month that celebrates poetry ~
I am sharing this little treasure
and would love to hear your thoughts.

Rise
by Lyn Marinello ~ April 2026

I’ve been cut off at the knees; stabbed brutally in the back,
Betrayed without remorse. Been victimized by attack.
As long as memory serves, I’ve allowed these actions to take place.
I simply sat in silence. Told myself I was saving face.
Comments on my stature deterred my little girl pursuit.
How the sex I was born into caused an inclusivity dispute.
I was told I couldn’t dance because I was too short.
I couldn’t travel and compete. It seems golf was a boys-only sport.
I lacked the general knowledge to converse on relevant news.
Our thoughts did not align, so mine were lesser views.
I’ve overcome each obstacle; excelled on near every stance.
I chose not to absorb your hate. Opposed, again, I took a chance.
I built a ladder of each insult. Climbed beyond your petty lies.
My light won’t be extinguished. There is pain … and still I rise.

And now I am a pillar, standing firm for those in need.
I may not solve the problem, but I will always plant a seed ~
Of value and integrity; of import and of strength ~
To seek beyond the immediate; find meaning in life’s breadth and length.
Turn off the social media. Delete the static and the noise.
Dive into what’s adjacent … life’s simple, natural joys.
The world is full of critics ~ spineless cowards spewing hate.
There is absolutely nothing that says you need participate.
Don’t jump up on the wagon, or get caught up in its spokes.
Any fire can be fanned but choose which ones you will stoke.
I will stand beside you, fight for the overwhelmed and underserved;
Making certain life’s held high and common sense is duly preserved.
Feelings may be trampled, opinions are often oversized,
But together we’ll get through this … and still, my friend, we’ll rise.