Poem: Reason for Living

With each new birth or reincarnation,
We like to believe there is a reason we’re here.
Spending our lives searching for our purpose,
In the form of Gods, duties, characters, or careers.

Paving our path solely based on the approval
Of the societies and governments to which we are born.
The people and families that lovingly surround us,
Are sadly products of the same system of scorn.

Raised in this narrow-minded view of success,
Founded on nothing but rage, greed, and lust.
This papier-mâché world is crumbling around us,
Finally setting us free at last.

Recognise how we’ve had our heads turned away,
From the boundless possibilities that life could entail.
Perhaps now aware, we can see what we’re missing
And find the strength within us to readjust our sails.

Loving ourselves and loving each other
But not for our arrogance or personal gain.
Instead we will know that keeping our heart generous
Is the first step towards reducing the world’s pain.

Taking the time to understand our bodies,
Every muscle, every organ, every bone, every cell.
Connecting in ways that only then will allow us
To truly understand how to help someone else.

Learning our lessons so we can move forward,
For although we do wrong, we can always do right.
Believing in magic and forever in beauty,
For without these, this world is a nightmarish plight.

Becoming a creator by sharing our talents,
With the aim to enhance the experiences of all.
Clearing our minds from negativity and limitations,
To see through the distortion and faux obstacles.

Although this may sound noble, decent, and worthy,
Remember it is only my perspective, you’ll find.
For I am always struck when I’m posed with this question,
By the idea that ultimately it is all in our minds…

Can we eat what we like if we believe that we’re healthy?
Can we do what we want if we believe that we’re good?
Perhaps in the end, the reason for living
Is for the laws of the universe to be understood.

By Sylvia Villa (2024)