Release

There are those who struggle to meet deadlines
Without realizing that their life shall become one
While their moments are spent in this pursuit
They have no time to play and gambol in the sun

Knowledge is sought in amounts that are large
And its means are supposedly defined in schools
But it seems to be very difficult to hold and confine
As its essence seems to slip away not subject to rules

Every gathering that I am invited to seems the same
I hear people talking about their activities of import
They seem to want to achieve and therein be happy
But their goal seemed to me a very exacting despot

I saw children equipped by their own parents for this
A life of milestones: hypertension and attendant disease
Material possessions abundant, yet, impoverished soul
Prematurely aged children saddled with pain unreleased

I staggered home seeking release from control's shackle
The very love that should comfort shall alas also confine
Love's sweet voice shall be drowned in stern admonition
A quiet heart shall stand on the sidelines, silent in pain