Welcome to Cozy Poetry Corner by Debra A Winter (Richter)

(If you’ve ever felt like the little bird outside the lion’s den, this poem is for you. You’re not alone, and you don’t have to stay there.)

“I Can’t Compete”

I can’t compete; I can’t compete;

This site is hardly a real treat.

Too many clicks, just like in school,

Everyone is making their own rule.

If you want to write and play their game,

You’re welcome if you’re the same.

But once they think you’re just a daweeb,

And don’t think your worth their precious “seed” …

You’re tossed into the lion’s den,

And soon forgotten or eaten then.

So you gather up your thoughts like snow,

Trying to find a place to grow.

Things in life are tough enough,

To be handed a five all the time is simple stuff.

Sure, it’s nice to see that number all the time,

But did you really earn it, was the rhyme truly fine?

I understand the stress of being a rookie when you’re new;

You look at all the big words, when your vocabulary is few.

When understanding or knowing a certain word turns absurd,

Keeping a dictionary nearby, thinking, “Now what was that word?”

You start to doubt yourself on what to say or stage,

So you turn to the next writing on a new page.

Hoping this one you’ll understand and know,

To review and maybe someone will help you grow.

So, go ahead – read or write your way;

You may just get six stars by the end of that day.

If you don’t feel comfortable, don’t compete,

Save a smile, your happiness and retreat.

Author’s Note: I wrote this piece after watching so many new writers feel small in places that should have lifted them up. We all start somewhere, and none of us should feel like we’re standing outside a lion’s den just for sharing our words. If this poem brings you comfort, courage, or even a quiet moment of recognition, then it has done its job. Keep writing in your own way, at your own pace — your voice matters.