Beautiful Intrusions
by Odin Roark

How often we revolt
Our space invaded
At times creating panic
Other instances
Gifts realized
Yet momentarily misunderstood

Time knows not the right moment
Time merely measures
Yet we often say
“It was at the wrong time”
This “It” remaining often misconceived

To picture the most intrusive
Is to ask the “big” why
Is to realize
Lessons seldom come
As we choose them

A fly in our food
A Marathon’s exhaustion
A “Dear John” on promotion night
A heart attack at 52
Rendering a family bereaved

Time selects all our finish lines
Yet obstacles remain the challenge
Insipid champagne and notoriety the carrot
Failure the feared evil
Still most accept the thwarting
As providence

Sadly

Encroachment on desire
Seems to many
Contrary to empowerment
Yet to those
Accepting impediment
As lesson’s hindrance
Understanding’s challenge
Resolve’s reward
Intrusions are embraced

For without the obstacle
A finish is without reward
Love
Success
Longevity
The final rest
Might be all for nothing

Perhaps it all means nothing
Without time’s
Beautiful intrusions