A Vow To Myself

Summary

Jonathan Greene reflects on personal growth and community in a post-pandemic world through a series of vows to himself, emphasizing empathy, authenticity, and self-awareness.

Abstract

In the poem "A Vow To Myself," Jonathan Greene articulates a set of personal commitments in response to the harsh realities of the world, particularly in the context of the pandemic. He acknowledges his limitations in controlling global outcomes but resolves to be more charitable towards strangers, transparent in his interactions, and focused on his strengths and joys. Greene aspires to build a chosen community based on shared values rather than societal expectations. He also affirms his dedication to writing as a means of self-expression and healing. The poem concludes with a reminder of the importance of personal vows in shaping one's future and the world around them.

Opinions

The author feels a deep sense of responsibility to improve the world, despite recognizing the limits of his influence.
He expresses a desire to shift his focus from immediate family to helping strangers in need, indicating a broader view of community and compassion.
Greene emphasizes the importance of authenticity, advocating for openness instead of making others "pry open [his] ribcage" to understand him.
He intends to concentrate on activities that bring him joy and fulfillment, such as writing, which he describes as a soul-filling endeavor.
The author reflects on the impact of the pandemic, suggesting that it has prompted him to reevaluate what is truly important in life and to prioritize a sense of community.
He rejects the idea of returning to a pre-pandemic 'normal' that is filled with frustration, instead opting for a life that aligns with his personal values and revelations.
Greene's vows underscore a commitment to personal growth and the creation of a meaningful life in the face of adversity.

A Poem

A solemn promise of a better world is not within my power

I can’t give that gift to my children no matter how much I want to, have to So I make this vow to myself, just me and in reality, it’s a series of vows A list of things I want to remember for the days ahead when today seems so bleak

I will do more for others and when I say others I don’t mean my kids or my close family What I mean is that I will do more for strangers who are in need Not that I want to lose focus on those right in front of me, but damn, this world can be really harsh and I can say that from the comfort of my home because I have a home and right now, especially now, no one cares about those without a place to call home

I will be even more open and not make people pry open my ribcage to see the truth in my heart Because the truth might be all we have left after this and I don’t want to have to create a version of the truth when it’s easier to just be

I will focus on my strengths and pay attention to what makes me smile In a world so wrought with illness right now, I just can’t imagine going back to regular life just to feel frustrated If I want to live on a farm I am going to live on a farm If quasi-isolation suits me, especially now, I will make it work for me but will allow others to come with me as this whole scenario has just made me think more about what I want to hold near in my life and it’s not just me and my idle thoughts and philosophical revelations it’s more than that I want a community, but I want to choose it wisely instead of allowing judgments to be made for me

I will write and never stop because there is nothing that fills my soul more than this This constant outpouring of words and sentences sewn together with hope that I had, for so long, buried underneath the rubble of loss But writing is what lets the balloon fly Endless sky, a peaceful float Wherever the wind takes me A vow to myself

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