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Life is What We Make of It – Edgar A. Guest Poetry
Edgar A. Guest, a prolific American poet, wrote countless poems that resonated with everyday people. His work often explored themes of hope, perseverance, and the simple joys of life. One of his most beloved poems, “Life is What We Make of It,” speaks to the power of our choices and perspectives in shaping our experiences.
The Poem:
“Life is what we make it, after all,
Is just what we choose to see;
We can fill the world with sunshine,
Or with shadows, if we please.
We can make it a place of beauty,
Or a place of ugliness;
We can make it a place of joy,
Or a place of sadness.
It is not the world that makes us,
It is we that make the world;
And the world is just a mirror,
Reflecting what we’ve unfurled.”
Analysis:
The poem’s central message is beautifully conveyed through simple yet powerful imagery. Guest emphasizes that we have the agency to determine the quality of our lives. He uses the metaphor of a mirror to illustrate that the world reflects back to us what we put into it. If we choose to focus on the negative, we will experience more shadows. Conversely, if we cultivate a positive outlook, we will find more joy and beauty.
The poem also highlights the importance of resilience. Guest acknowledges that life will inevitably present challenges, but he encourages readers to find strength in adversity. He reminds us that even in the face of difficulties, we have the power to choose how we respond. We can choose to be defeated or we can choose to rise above our circumstances.
Lessons for Life:
“Life is What We Make of It” offers valuable lessons for navigating life’s complexities:
- Our Choices Matter: We are not simply passengers in life; we are the drivers. Our decisions shape our experiences and determine the course of our lives.
- Perspective is Key: How we perceive the world influences how we interact with it. By choosing to focus on the positive, we can create a more fulfilling and joyful life.
- Resilience is Essential: Life will inevitably throw curveballs. It is our ability to persevere through challenges that allows us to grow and thrive.
- We Have the Power to Create: We are not simply reacting to the world; we are actively shaping it. Through our actions, thoughts, and choices, we can make a difference in the world around us.
Conclusion:
Edgar A. Guest’s poem “Life is What We Make of It” is a timeless reminder of the power we hold within ourselves. It encourages us to take responsibility for our lives, cultivate a positive outlook, and embrace the challenges that come our way. By choosing to focus on the good, we can create a life filled with joy, meaning, and purpose.