Glad This Is Not My Issue

I have never been accused,
Of being patriotic.
Devoted or loyal.
Nor sacrificial to others' needs.

Whether known or not...
These activities,
Do not from other lips speak.

It has never been discussed,
How I would rush to the aid of others.
And entertain them with foolishness,
Just to see a smile come across their lips.

Although I've been called stupid on many occasions.

It has never been expressed,
My desire to do my very best.
Or to implement with discipline,
The tackling done of obstacles that come to test.

Yet...
It has been said,
I think I'm better than the rest.
Trying to impress.

I have heard comments stated in my face,
To berate what is I've attempted to do.
To then have it said...
I do what I do to seek attention.
As if there is something I need to prove.

'Can we all say, Lun-a-tic? '

And the more I value the quietness of my peace,
In a privacy I seek to protect...
I hear it said that I am lonely, eccentric and seeking friends.
And a public attention is what I address.

As I age,
I thank God my time has been spent...
In the validation of those things important.
And the sharing of events with those loved who are close.
If I had not...
I would not know whose life it is to live!
Or which of those with mental illnesses needing focus the most!

I am glad this is not my issue.
And I've got them too.
But not on these levels.

poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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