Imprisoned by a Thought (poem) by John Herlihy on AuthorsDen

Imprisoned by a Thought
by John Herlihy → (All Poetry by John Herlihy)
Sunday, March 2, 2025 Rated "G" by the Author.

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-- Imprisoned by a Thought -- by John Herlihy Strange how we can be imprisoned by a thought, Imprisoned by a notion we have never sought. Alone, burdened, with heavy weight in the mind, Unwilling to be lifted, leaving bad feelings behind. How can this happen, I find my mind in charge, Moving thru the waters of my day as a river barge. The mind the prison, the instrument a sole thought, My honest reasoning cast aside and left for naught. We awaken in the morning, the thought still there, Nothing can take its place, not even a silent prayer. It moves through the day like phases of the moon, Half moon, full moon, a sickle cutting the gloom. Amazing how a simple thought can take full control, Weaving its way thru the mind with misery it stole. The desire for revenge inspired by recent betrayal, Suffering from a death that our tender hearts assail. From this labyrinth of negativity set yourself free, Sit yourself down, empty the mind, breathe deeply. Our mind has reasons but should not be in control, Draw upon the inner sanctum of your abiding soul. - - - - - Copyright © John Herlihy Friday 3 January 2025

Reviewed by Jms Bell

Reviewed on May 3, 2025

I AM IN TOTAL AGREEMENT---THOSE NEGATIVE FORCES WHICH CAN GIVE US TERRIBLE THOUGHTS NEED TO BE RECOGNIZED AND DEALT WITH...PRONTO. WHAT WITH... CONSIDERING WE LIVE IN THIS WORLD THAT IS NOT OUR HOME AND IS AWASHED IN MUCH DARKNESS, THERE IS NO WONDER THIS CAN HAPPEN, BUT...GOD/PRAYER IS THE ANSWER, INDEED. FINE WORK MY FRIEND...THANK YOU. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS

Reviewed by Ronald Hull

Reviewed on March 2, 2025

I find my conscience kicking in occasionally when something doesn't go right in spite of good intentions. That thought can interrupt my day like you suggest in the poem and even occupy my dreams at night.

I had just one of those situations going for the last couple of days. Luckily, an intermediary jumped in and helped resolve the situation today so that it no longer bothers me.

Ron

Reviewed by Richard Cederberg

"labyrinth of negativity" sums up well what we're witnessing now in the news and in all nations around the world. Assuming that our minds are in charge is a mistake. The forces that sway and pollute our thinking are vast and ever-changing. It's why I'm convinced it's important (unless we're writing characterizations) to discipline ourselves with these guidelines: "whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue, and if there is anything praiseworthy�meditate on these things." Thank you, John. An insight well received. r

Reviewed by Odin odin@aflx.com

You have explored here the conundrum that few people give credence to, this duality of what makes us sentient: heart and mind. Yes, some would unknowingly add, soul. But to the weary of confined thinking, be it secular or reliegious, the heart in all its real adn enigmatic reality houses the very nature of the inner being. And, as you point out, negativity is the all consuming energy made sterile of giving adn recieving thoughts that truly matter. You have me thinking of the longterm effect of being fortunate enough to rid oneself of the minus energy. Well written with an air of confidence in word choices that have avoided the cliche rhyme rhyme feeling labored, not natural. You have your tools in order sharing the ease with which they speak loud and clear. Thank you for the stimulation.