A Tribute to the Spirit of Living

The silver boots still sparkle a bit,

But observers detect The nicks and scuffs of time.

New heels and soles make a comfy fit

Which allows the wearer to reflect

 On trails walked in life’s monotonous climb.

Their brilliance belies the drudgery

Of making ends meet And doing thejob.

But where they walk A spirit moves on: Endures;

Trying doesn’t count, only doing;

Tomorrow will be better for someone,

Because I have today.

— Ken Dauer — © October 10, 1989

An old poem about some old boots. A Tribute to the Spirit of Living The silver boots still sparkle a bit, But observers detect The nicks and scuffs of time. New heels and soles make a comfy fit Which allows the wearer to reflect On trails walked in life’s monotonous climb. Their brilliance belies the drudgery Of making ends meet And doing thejob. But where they walk A spirit moves on: Endures; Trying doesn’t count, only doing; Tomorrow will be better for someone, Because I have today. — Ken Dauer — © October 10, 1989

I want to thank Mike S for his support through some bumps in my road.  In his business, he always found odd jobs to help some person maintain some dignity by earning their keep.  I remember him saying, “I can usually help one or two people at a time.  Today, they might be able to eat lunch meat, instead of just peanut butter.”  I’m not sure which was the student and which was the teacher; in fact, probably both were both. –FinePickens