Monday, August 9, 2010

Glitter



A few weeks ago I came across poem written by J.R.R. Tolkien for his "Lord of the Rings" books.  I haven't been able to get it out of my head.  Each line seems to call out to a different aspect of my personality, a different challenge that day, or a different emotion I struggle with. I've probably spent the most time thinking about the second line - not all those who wander are lost.  I feel like a wander at times, and I this line reminds me that as different as my life is, it is a choice and one that has been rewarding.  When bouts of homesickness hit - I need this reminder.



All that is gold does not glitter,

Not all those who wander are lost;

The old that is strong does not wither,

Deep roots are not reached by the frost.



From the ashes a fire shall be woken,

A light from the shadows shall spring;

Renewed shall be blade that was broken,

The crownless again shall be king.



When I was a teenager there was a country singer who played a concert in my high school - since I'm from a very small town a concert is a pretty big deal.  Of course we all bought his music - and one of my favorites had to have been based on this poem.  I remember listen to this song in my room, with the lights out, letting the music flow over me, it was so sad.


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8 comments:

Maegan Beishline said...

What a fantastic poem! I'm so glad that you are seeing the beauty and reward of your choices...because it's always about the choices. No one ever has everything they want or enough in their life to fulfill all sides of their soul. We've all made choices.

"All that is gold does not glitter"...that is the line that I'm hearing loud and clear tonight! xo

Tammy Lee Bradley said...

Lovely poem. One I will ponder on for awhile. :)

R Montalban said...

The picture is beautiful as is the poem. I think you sparkle and glitter too ...

Suki said...

This is a wonderful poem. I need to ponder this too.

Lesley said...

Jamie, thanks for reminding me of this wonderful poem!
I particularly like the line "Not all those who wander are lost"
Love your golden picture too.
Lesley

Cindy said...

i like the line - the old that is strong does not wither - age is just a number!

Anonymous said...

Wonderful poem; I know I've read it before but not in a long time, and I'm glad to be reminded of it.

Simon said...

Hey Jamie-
Thank you for sharing this. The poem is lovely and worth tucking aside.
Dan Seals I believe was part of Seals and Crofts...he voice is beatiful and I love how it floats up high in the refrain. He didn't used to be a country guy, but I can see it's a fit.
Happy day to you.
Susan

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