Trouble in Paradise 

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

 

 © Lozan Yamolky

On the bark of the mighty banyan trees,
inscriptions of a hurting native soul

send shivers down your spine.

 

Near a high-end eatery,
a homeless man lies in deep sleep,

covered with a blanket.

 

On the sidewalk of the famous Honolulu strip,
an elderly woman walks

with all her life’s possessions

in a shopping cart.

 

In the most prestigious hotel a single mother works,
barely getting by;

yet she smiles so sweetly.

 

In the most pristine, ancient forest,

tourists toss trash with little regard.

 

At a beautifully landscaped intersection

cars wait for traffic lights to turn green;

while a beggar in a wheelchair,

with his head down, holds a sign that reads:

Iraq war veteran, please help!

 

The massive, spectacular waves cannot talk;

if they could, they would tell stories

of how many took their very last breaths
seeking the thrill of just being in the waves.

 

Mountains higher than skyscrapers stand tall,
allowing only a few to reach their peaks;

others were not so fortunate.

 

Yes, even in paradise my friends,

there is trouble!
_________________________________

 © Lozan Yamolky

From debut book: I’m No Hero

By: Silver Bow Publishing 2016

Your Life’s Journey

IMG_4788

 

Your Life’s Journey

© Lozan Yamolky

 

 

Unless the city sidewalk has 

even once, been your bed,

try not to condemn the homeless.

 

Unless you lived countless days

and countless nights

sad beyond words,

try not to pass judgment on those battling depression.

 

Unless you have been betrayed

by a person you trusted,

try not to be too quick to criticize
those who have difficulty trusting.

 

Unless you have felt

the deep anguish

of a woman terminating her pregnancy,

try not to hatefully question

a woman’s right to choose.

 

Unless you have been displaced

in search of a new life, in a foreign land,

try not to scorn a refugee.

 

Unless you have been ill

where you find it difficult

to care for yourself,

try not to judge those living in unkempt homes.

 

If you have never had to choose

between dressing well;

feeding your hungry stomach;

buying your medication;
pay your utility bills;

or keep a roof over your head,

try not to be condescending

to those who look less groomed than you.

 

My heart aches seeking freedom.

My spirit loves living life. 

My crying voice sings beautiful songs.

My arms spread wide, seeking peace.

 

Reach out for me,
I am everywhere.

 

I am the needy

you just passed by.

 

I am the one

you just avoided making

eye contact with.

 

Who I am and where I am right now

is all a part

—of your life’s journey.

 

© Lozan Yamolky
from debut book: I’m No Hero
by: Silver Bow Publishing 2016