Inspiration...

A Dream Deferred

by Langston Hughes

What happens to a dream deferred?

Does it dry up
like a raisin in the sun?
Or fester like a sore--
And then run?
Does it stink like rotten meat?
Or crust and sugar over--
like a syrupy sweet?

Maybe it just sags
like a heavy load.

Or does it explode?

     I gave birth to my first daughter at 17 years old. I was a senior in high school. So many people told me that my life was over. So many strangers shook their heads in pity or disgust when they saw my round belly. Yet somehow, my heart kept beating. The birth of my daughter may have come at an inopportune time by society's standards, but they say, a baby is a blessing. Of course, if I could turn back the hands of time I would have waited until I could be more certain of a secure future for her, but I must say that my little pumpkin did dramatically change my life...for the better! The thought of having the responsibility of creating and shaping a new new life, has sent me into overdrive. My daughter gives me something to live for. She is a motivation for me to take life seriously. Only God knows where I would be right now had she not come into my life.

     This poem reminds me that you should never give up on your dreams. It feels like I've been dealing with hurdle after hurdle, but that's life. It goes on, even when you think you feel like you can't take anymore. My dream was deferred, but its still attainable, and I'm determined to meet my goals. :)

Does this poem resonate with you? How?