
tears are like open wounds
that never lie, on that we can rely
and, try as we might
we are never truly sure,
only ever, may we relish in the fervor
of yesterday’s delight, pushing us further…
and, as time expands
our heart-center’s beingness, we
live in this moment,
transcending the calling card
of tomorrow’s bequest,
knowing it will
come anyway,
if we are so blessed…
just as the grass
grows weary and tired,
expanding into the sky with fearlessness
despite the trials, and tribulations that
come along…thus
may this song be sung
in remembrance, of all those
that continue to stand tall,
despite the many falls…
-JEFF FLESCH
Jeff grew up in Los Angeles, and now lives in Corvallis, Oregon, where he works in Educational Leadership. Jeff’s interests and passions include personal and professional development, developing new ways to increase access to higher education, and creating inspiration, transformation, and more equity throughout society. Visit Develop. Inspire. Transform. to read more of his thoughts and writing.

We would love to read your work. Interested? Please READ our SUBMISSION GUIDELINES.
-MASTICADORESINDIA
Jeff’s poetic ode to courage and perseverance touches the heart and comforts the mind. Tears may fall from weary eyes but strength emerges from downfalls and suffering. I feel like standing tall and singing this song of praise for myself and those who have tasted trials and tribulations. I am grateful for these words and their beauty.
Congratulations Jeff!
LikeLiked by 1 person
That is so kind of you, Terveen, it is an honor to be here. Thank you for always supporting my work and the work of all of the talented writers in our wonderful community. Have a wonderful week! 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Jeff is a great poet whose poetry touches the heart as closely as only love does. Each word in his poems is calm and broad in meaning and his use of poetic devices is wonderful. Congrats, Jeffy.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I appreciate you being here, Lamittan, it means a lot to me, my friend. Thank you so much for the kind words and support.
LikeLike
You’re welcome
LikeLike
beautiful ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much, David. 💖
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wonderful write, Jeff! 👏👏👏
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much, Vipul! Your appreciation and presence mean a lot to me.😊🙏
LikeLiked by 1 person
Congratulations Jeff on this honor so well deserved. Your poem speaks volumes to the song in our heart and the journey of living one more day if we are lucky enough! 💖👏👏🙏
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much, dearest Cindy. Your comment and compliment make me smile deeply. You are an amazing friend and a blessing. Have a lovely day, my dear friend! 🙏💖🤗
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh Good.. Your smile and support to me and our community is untouchable. Have a fabulous da! 💖🌷
LikeLike
Alf Mabrook! One Thousand congratulations Jeff on being asked to be a contributor..I can’t think of anyone who deserves it more! This poem is so human, so us. I know everyone can relate to having fallen and gotten back up on their feet…in Life and love..Your ode honors us all. Beautiful Jeff!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh, Karima, that is such a touching comment and compliment, it makes my heart so very happy. You are always there for me, and for that, I thank you, my dear friend! 💖🙏🤗✨
LikeLiked by 1 person
Jeff’s collection of poems are profound, thought provoking and insightful and are truly worth reading. Congratulations Jeff .
LikeLiked by 2 people
Congratulations Jeff. Such an insightful poem . Loved it as always.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much, Sowmya, for both of these lovely comments and compliments. It means the world to me, my dear friend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
With pleasure Jeff
LikeLike
The opening lines express that exposed feeling so well. Love the “calling card” ignored. This poem has such a great vibe. Thanks for sharing this.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much, K. Knowing you enjoyed this poem makes my heart happy.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautiful work Jeff. Your work sings to me.
LikeLiked by 2 people
That’s so kind, thank you so much, Cassa. I’m honored.
LikeLike
Wow, congratulations, Jeff! This is brilliant! 👍😊
LikeLiked by 2 people
That’s so kind, thank you so much, Aaysid! ☺️
LikeLiked by 1 person
A beautiful poem with a beautiful message!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much, Dominic!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
My pleasure Jeff!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Congratulations, Jeff!
LikeLiked by 1 person