The Olympics - Tragedy or Euphoria

An athlete spends many years, 

And many hours daily

In preparation for a chance

To compete in trials

Hoping to be good enough

To gain a spot in their particular sport;

To make the national Olympic team.

What joy it brings to receive that call,

You are in; you have made it for the Olympics!

What euphoria; what excitement–but wait

This means the hours and hours of unrewarded 

Pain and  struggle will now continue,

For the major goal is still ahead–winning

An Olympic medal, preferably gold.

Now it's on to the Olympics!

This is the reason for all the hours of work.

Your event is soon before you

You nervously wonder, Will I be ready? Will I win a medal?

The race is on, you push until your legs and arms burn

Will you be first, last or somewhere in between?

You finish; you flop down and let the tears flow

All that pent up energy now is spent.

Your family and friends surround you;

They want you to feel their support.

Now the question remains,

Are the tears flowing because of tragedy and loss,

Or are the tears that of joyous euphoria?

PEOPLEWATCHING IN THE MALL

I sit quietly in the Mall’s food court

I wonder where each person

Is going, while I watch.

Some wander as though lost;

While some hold tightly to their kids.

Still others push a stroller,

Or maybe push a wheelchair,

Some stride with heavy purpose,

Looking for that special friend

With whom to chat while enjoying a snack.

Others meander aimlessly,

Helping an older adult find a place to rest,

Or maybe purchase some necessities

With help from that loved one pushing with joy.

Some try to navigate a walker amidst the crowd.

Friends meet friends

Joyously engaging in conversation.

Over a cup of coffee; or maybe an ice cream soda.

The chatter across the tables brings

A hum that fills the room with joyous vibes.

This is my inspiration for a mood 

That lifts me up and energizes me.

My cup of coffee is now cold,

But my heart is full and warm.