I wrote this about a year ago when I was going through a tuff time. Some have read it already. A touch, a word, a fleeting glance, A whispered hope, a second chance. The way we treat the ones in pain Can mend the soul or leave a stain. A child who cries in silent fear, A wound ignored, unseen, yet near. A gentle hand, a kind embrace, Can turn the darkness into grace. The doctor mends, the healer sighs, A patient pleads with weary eyes. A single dose, a bandage tight, Yet kindness proves the true respite. For scars are more than flesh and bone, Some linger deep, some stand alone. And how we treat the broken hearts Determines if the healing starts. A sentence laced with bitter steel, Can cut as deep as blades that kill. A careless jest, a sharp critique, Can shake the strong and wound the weak. Yet words, when placed with love and care, Can lift despair from weighted air. A compliment, a simple cheer, Can wipe away the silent tear. How do we treat the ones we meet? With words like daggers, cold and fleet? Or do we gift them warmth and light, And guide them gently through the night? The way we treat the weak and small, Defines the height from which we fall. The beggar left without a name, The outcast bathed in silent shame. A world that turns from pleading eyes, Will find itself where mercy dies. Yet justice, when it stands alone, Is nothing but a heart of stone. To treat with fairness is to blend The hand of law with love’s amend. For punishment with no reprieve Leaves hollow hearts that can’t believe. A second chance, a moment spared, Might show the world someone still cares. And in that light, in fate’s own hand, A shattered soul may learn to stand. The Treatment We Give Ourselves But what of how we treat our skin, Our weary bones, the soul within? Do we demand, yet never rest, And wear our burdens like a vest? The mirror shows a tale unkind, Reflections shaped by judging mind. We speak to self with cruel disdain, And drown in doubt, embrace the pain.

Today's Question: If your life had one room that no one else has ever seen, what would be inside it? Maybe it's filled with old photographs, unfinished dreams, childhood memories, regrets, hope, or something completely unexpected. Write a poem that opens the door and lets us step inside. Monkey says: "Every heart has a room that's been waiting for someone brave enough to unlock it." 🐾

The Art of Poetry **POEM OF THE WEEK AWARD** Wow such a privilege to work with great writers. You did not make this job easy!! PEOM OF THE WEEK GOES TO... @Jason Strickland THE POET WITHOUT A PEN The very first glance of this poem stuck with me. I love the flow, the feeling and the way the words capture your mind, making you ask yourself all at the same time...clearly stating poems do not need words they simply can be a watching a shooting star in the sky. I've read it over and over. **CONGRATULATIONS 🏆 🎉 🙌** @Jason Strickland our very own poem of the week winner chosen by @Melissa Poetrylpls L

Welcome to The Art of Poetry. If you're here, it means one simple thing… You love words. Maybe you’ve been writing poetry for years. Maybe you just started yesterday. Either way — you belong here. This community was created as a place where poets can write, share, learn, and grow together in a supportive environment. Before jumping in, here are a few quick things to know. ✍️ 1. Introduce Yourself Start by saying hello in the comments below. Tell us: • Where you're from • How long you've been writing poetry • What kind of poetry you enjoy most We love meeting new poets. 📚 2. Explore the Classroom The Classroom is where you'll find structured lessons and resources designed to help you grow as a poet. Inside the classroom you'll find things like: • Poetry lessons and writing techniques • The Prompt Vault for endless writing inspiration • Courses for developing your voice and style • Publishing and poetry guidance If you're serious about improving your craft, the classroom is a great place to start. 📝 3. Share Your Poetry You’re welcome to post your poems anytime. Many members also ask for feedback, and this community does a great job of encouraging and supporting each other as writers. 🗓️ 4. Join Our Daily Activities We also run daily creative activities: Prompt Monday – Writing inspiration Skill Builder Tuesday – Learn something new Share Your Work Wednesday – Showcase your poetry Feedback Friday – Get helpful feedback Spotlight Saturday – Celebrate our poets Reflection Sunday – Reflect and write Jump in anytime. 🏆 Community Events We also host things like: • Poet of the Month • Poetry contests • Community book projects • Writing challenges ❤️ One Simple Rule Be kind and supportive. Poetry can be deeply personal, and we respect that here. 👇 Your Turn Drop a comment below and introduce yourself. Tell us your name and what kind of poetry you enjoy writing. We’re glad you’re here. Welcome to The Art of Poetry. — Jason Founder