Posted by Erich Shelton on Sunday, September 20, 2009
Under: Poetry
As I go through life, I wonder where I’m going. Haven’t I been down this road once before? Haven't I seen the anguish, the heartache, the pain? As I walk, I cannot help but question where it is taking me. No one knows for sure where it leads; where it stops.
Whenever I feel trapped, like a prisoner or a bird in a cage, Subject to all the demands of the day; the tugging, the pulling, the constant drone of demand. I close my eyes and soon my spirit rises upward; I begin flying like the giant egret above me.
When loneliness bids, I go to my hideaway amongst the flowers. The wind against my face cools and refreshes my soul. The smell of fresh mown grass awaken all hesitation. In my dreams I see the treasures that I have obtained. Like a healing salve, these dreams become my comfort.
Fresh milk from a mother's breast, provides nourishment. A gentle stirring of reeds flows gently in the wind. I listen to the whirring, whirring of the cicadas. Dreams without limitations. No boundaries. No cares. I am free, my dreams and I. I am free.
I currently teach graphic design and illustration at the University of Southern Indiana. I really love teaching and the challenges which this provides me. It not only keeps me young, but forces me to be that ongoing learner; sometimes referred to as a life-long learner. This goal of continuing to learn as finally brought me back to the role as a student as well. Some years ago I started and MFA, but due to an automobile accident was unable to complete it.
I have just been accepted as a student at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and will finally be able to work on the MFA. The great thing is I can continue working at USI and will visit the AAU in the summer. The rest of the time I am able to take my courses online.
Like technology and life, it is constantly changing and evolving. What a joy to be part of it all!