Dear LPG,

As spring threatens to turn winter into summer again, I had this thought which I turned into a poem that I think might resonate with quite a few readers at this time of year. I believe that as we get a little older, we have more time to do many things, and one that we indulge in a little more than in earlier life is self-assessment of where our lives are up to.

Whenever we meet someone, be it a good friend, an acquaintance or a stranger for the first time, there comes the initial greeting, which is soon followed by the inevitable, '… and how are you?'

My poem today analyses possible answers to that question… 

I'M GOOD

"I'm good, I'm good, I'm good!
This is a widespread phrase in our modern society.
But what do we mean when we say, "I'm good?" And are we being honest with ourselves and with each other...

When I say, "I'm good," is it because I'm glad to be alive; I am fit and healthy; that I'm living in a lovely house, drive an excellent modern automobile, or I am financially well-off, with family and friends who love and care for me unconditionally?

When I say, "I'm good," am I saying that my entire life is perfect because I am blessed; I am great; everything is fine; I am alright; safe, satisfied with my life; happy, fortunate, glad, contented; I am just fine! Really fine!

Everything is so perfect; I have absolutely nothing to complain about. But is that really what I mean when asked, "How are you today?" And I eagerly reply: "I'm good!"  Am I implying that all is well with me? That I have no problem? That I haven't got a care in the world?

How am I right now? I am ok. I am doing great... or should I say at this present moment? Can I be frank with you?... I am not so good right now, but I am living in the hope that things will get better.

How about you? Are you well? And if so, how good are you? Are you very, very good? Or are you not so good?

©2019 by Beverly Gooden Wilson