Journey of Hearts

The poem the Blaze was written in response to the many people that I have contacted over the years, who have tried to disuade me from my path and convince me that I should do something else, or go in another direction.

Obstacles and challenges are placed in the way to see if you really will stay true to your path. Those who do not believe in you may be the strongest motivators of all. Because it is that lack of faith which will push someone to strive farther and try harder, to achieve even higher goals. At times I falter, but I do not fall, and I emerge stronger and victorious.

The symbol of the Phoenix arising victorious is a stronger one that I believe should appeal to men, perhaps better than the butterfly.

In my lifetime

I have met many with facades

speaking sweetly to my face,

but once my back is turned

The betrayal ensues

their true thoughts proclaimed.

They are needing to undermine

my confidence

my credibility

trying to cut me down

in a feeble attempt

to bolster their self doubts

and raise their confidence.

Intentionally, obstacles are placed in my path,

out of spite and with malice

so that I might stumble, fall

and be hurt.

Waiting, hoping, praying

for my failure.

Cut down by thoughtless, uncaring words

Wounded by vengeful, heartless actions

Injured by prejudiced, insensitive minds

I falter

but do not fall.

Wounded,

I bleed.

Though their words can hurt deeply

their actions singe my pride

and inflame my sense of injustice

I feel each stinging barb

yet I survive.

I heal.

In the process

discover my strength

my courage

my power.

With the knowledge

theirs is merely a charade

drenched in hypocrisy

awaiting discovery.

These thoughts and deeds are rooted

in ignorance and fear

but most of all

in jealousy.

Like the mighty phoenix,

Once again I rise from the flames

set to destroy me

and take flight.

I am

Stronger

Glorious

Powerful

Victorious.

Kirsti A. Dyer, MD, MS