Only Look Within
And find all that you need
A year ago,
I looked in the mirror
and told myself things would change.
I cook,
I read,
I exercise.
I let myself feel.
Weep with joy at my favorite symphonies.
All of this growth is only possible
because I looked within
and found a self worth fighting for.
About the Creator
Stephen A. Roddewig
Author of A Bloody Business and the Dick Winchester series. Proud member of the Horror Writers Association 🐦⬛
Also a reprint mercenary. And humorist. And road warrior. And Felix Salten devotee.
And a narcissist:
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More stories from Stephen A. Roddewig and writers in Poets and other communities.
Poetry of a 13-year-old
Not going to lie to you. I may have discovered a gem or two in Part 1 of this excavation of the past, but I find myself legitimately impressed by how much I had grown as a poet in a mere three years. Not to mention, my spelling had improved mightily.
By Stephen A. Roddewigabout a year ago in Poets
Why Black History Matters in America?
The United States of America is celebrating their 250th anniversary in 2026. I'm proud to be an American and as someone who was born here, I wouldn't imagine myself living anywhere else. This is a country where opportunities are possible. Where anyone can be successful in anything they desire to do. Equality, community, and togetherness are the backbones of what America is and should be about. However, we have an administration who wants to erase and disregard those who have made positive, meaningful impacts in our country, specifically Black figures, such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, and Maya Angelou. President Trump and his administration have been constantly complaining and fighting against what they call the "Woke agenda". They use this excuse as a distraction from other issues they refuse to address, such as the high cost of living, climate change, and inflation. That equality is dividing America, when in reality, it's bringing us together. Being woke is not tied to a specific political party. No matter where you stand on the political spectrum, you can still care about other people and their plights. Compassion and empathy for others isn't tied to a political party, either. We were taught as children to treat others the way we want to be treated and not judge others because they're different from us. Caring about others isn't a personal attack on your beliefs. It doesn't make you any less of a person. People who are easily offended over African American figures, past or present, or anything related to it, are grasping at straws. Current and future generations need to know who people like Harriet Tubman and Shirley Chisholm were, especially in the classroom. Black History is part of American History. It should be recognized, not hidden or forgotten. Besides, you can't shield children from everything, just because your feelings are easily hurt.
By Mark Wesley Pritchard 4 days ago in The Swamp
Comments (13)
Self Love is elusive and hard to maintain for so many people. It can be like riding an ocean wave. Here's hoping you're always able to surf it with pride. (I love it that you're a member of the Horror Writers Association!) ⚡💙⚡
Stephen - I've seen you around the Vocal-Hood many times and today I saw your very intelligent~interesting comment on the 'Board' and I wanted you to know that. Rachel and Cj are very good chums of mine and communicate almost daily: You may have viewed my 'Ode to Rachel Deeming' as a tribute to her year-long endeavor; such a tremendous accomplishment. I can certainly see how she could be 'pissed' at you-know-who...! Stephen, I'm not a writer like you or the others. I'm simply a legal professional and old-fashioned storyteller posting my Silly Shorts with my Goofy Sketches that lead into them for the fun of it; nothing more. - With my Respect - Jay Kantor, Chatsworth, California 'Senior' Vocal Author - Vocal Village Community -
We all should find our self worth and that will make a fighter of us all. Well Done!!!
I liked this when I read it on fb. Glad to read it again here. Good on you. Great message, very succinct and relatable. Works well too without the stanzas. 😃
This was so empowering and wonderful! Loved your poem!
Excellent word! Brief, yet concise. And you gotta love the daredevil cat. Nice pics, Stephen. Oh, sorry, Stephen A. Roddewig. How dare me.
Ah, my heart!! <3 Combined with the pictures and title, this poem just sings with warmth and self-love. Thank you for sharing!
Love your poem and the beautiful pictures of your Happy moments!
A self-love anthem that inspires! Growth shines brightest when it starts within—beautifully expressed. Keep fighting for that amazing self!
This better darn tootin be Top Story soon! Love this, Stephen and well done to you and those images are all awesome!
I feel this read my poetry the before Covid one ♦️♦️♦️♦️♦️♦️
Love this for you :) What a wonderful example of compassion for yourself. Great entry!
Always remember that you're worth something, Stephen. <3 Love this poem