Talents

Great talents make me envious,
Of men...when I see them rise.
And reach the notes of angels,
Right before my eyes.

Gay strokes upon a canvas,
Thrills me...O, so much.
And mystifies my being,
At the wonders of his touch.

Which foot...did go forward,
And when did he begin?
Did someone quit encouraging,
And failed to push me in?

Why shouldn't I of done this thing,
And let the bubble burst?
Why couldn't I of took the step,
Who stood and did it first?

I watch the ways of people,
And my mind is set in thought.
I wonder how they got to be,
What they are...and why I'm not?


E.P. 1908 - 1989