Be like the rivers

Running fast and strong

They pick up a little bit of everything

And carry it further along

Don't be like the standing water

With algae growing on the top of it

You need to keep moving and learning

To find where your life will fit

The philosopher told me this

From the kitchen we used to work at

And I know he believed in this

So now I give it more thought

How do people know

That they've lived a full life?

Does it appeal to them suddenly

When they are about to die?

Is it the world renowned

Who have been to all places

And have their names in the books

Were their lives best, as they will be known for the ages?

Or is it only the brilliant people

Who have learned continuously through time

Are they the ones who can claim

The best and fullest life was mine?

I think on the river

Running clear, wild and free

The experiences I've had

And the lives I have touched

What it has meant, thus far, to be me

Perhaps to my philosopher friend

I was a pebble in his river

As I've learned from him

In his meaning of life and

The symbolism he came to offer

The best lives move forward

And help everyone along their way

Like the river, staying true to course

Every day

Learn more about this author, Lisa Bjurstrom.
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