One thousand nouns to describe the things that I have

been. I've been a boy, a teen. And now a man.

I have played the role of warrior. I've been a father

and a friend. I am a poet and a thief. An addict and

a drunk. I am not exceptional. Except to God.

One thousand ways to describe all I have done.

The thoughts and emotions that make up

who we become. Are they pure?

Do they benefit anyone? I pray they do.

One thousand mistakes that I have made.

Misdirected anger. Could it be that I'm still afraid?

I try so hard. But this rage within still won't abate.

I philosiphize, yet stumble on. Determined.

One thousand times I've learned about myself.

My humanity a curse I bear. But not alone.

For in the shadow of your soul. You know.

We are not alone.

One thousand brothers, one thousand friends.

One thousand mothers, strangers, sisters.

It never ends. So take a hand. Reach out.

Take someones hand. Today.

Phil G. Inman Sr.

May 18th 2010