Whenever I feel in need of some inspiration (or a good kick up the rear!) I frequently turn to this beautiful poem by Pablo Neruda...
You Start Dying Slowly
You start dying slowly
If you do not travel,
If you do not read,
If you do not listen to the sounds of life,
If you do not appreciate yourself.
You start dying slowly
When you kill your self-esteem;
When you do not let others help you.
You start dying slowly
If you become a slave of your habits,
Walking everyday on the same paths...
If you do not change your routine,
If you do not wear different colours
Or you do not speak to those you don't know.
You start dying slowly
If you avoid to feel passion
And their turbulent emotions;
Those which make your eyes glisten
And your heart beat fast.
You start dying slowly
If you do not change your life when you are not satisfied with your job, or with your love,
If you do not risk what is safe for the uncertain,
If you do not go after a dream,
If you do not allow yourself,
At least once in your lifetime,
To run away from sensible advice...
Pablo Neruda
More poems by Pablo Neruda here.
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2 comments:
I am a fan of Neruda, but am not familiar with this one. How could I have missed it? Maybe it's just been too long since I've picked up a book of his poetry. Thank you for reawakening my appreciation. Would you mind if I shared this poem on my blog, giving credit, and a link to yours, of course? Jenn
Hi Jenn, yes please do share it on your blog, it's a wonderful poem :) Many thanks!
~ Pam
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