The last time someone said to me, <br />I couldn't do what I enjoyed in my own hometown. <br />That I would have to leave to find peace of mind. <br />With a creative outlook I had that sought activity. <br />If I wished to witness success believed. <br />Well... <br />That I achieved! <br />And it seems so many years ago. <br />In a place I was told I should leave and go! <br /> <br />Today... <br />As I think of those who said, <br />I had to go away... <br />To realize those dreams I had in my head. <br />I think of how embarrassing it must be to feel, <br />To discourage someone who reveals a determination... <br />That proves doubters only motivate, <br />The whims of procrastinators. <br /> <br />And my mama always said to me... <br />'I know you aint paying me no attention, <br />Pretending to be listening.' <br /> <br />And my mama was so right. <br />I've developed when to shut down, turn off and ignore. <br />Not out of disrespect. <br />But rather to protect my own survival and footsteps. <br /> <br />Some folks are inspired by deadends. <br />And I must admit, <br />The challenge of them and what they present... <br />Inspires me to remove obstacles. <br />And I have never been able to explain that to anyone.<br /><br />Lawrence S. Pertillar<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/to-shut-down-turn-off-and-ignore/
