My Soul Is In A Hurry

If you’re a person who sails through life without so much as a ripple, you should read this. Take a moment to enjoy this thought-provoking poem written by Mario de Andrade (1893–1945) on the value of maturity. You will learn that in order to reach the end satisfied and in peace—you must embrace every wave and survive every storm. Introducing the classic, “My Soul is in a Hurry.”

"My Soul is in a Hurry"

I have counted my years and realized that I have
less time to live than I have lived so far.
I have more past than future.

I feel like this child, that received a box of candies:
After fast indulging the first ones, all the sudden realizing, that there are not so many left, and
Those should be better appreciated and truly enjoyed.

I do not have time for endless gatherings where statutes, rules, processes,
And internal regularities are discussed, knowing, that nothing will be achieved.

I don’t have time anymore to bear absurd people,
Who despite their age have not grown.

I don’t have time anymore to fight the mediocrity.
I don’t want to participate in conversations, where inflated egos are parading.
I can’t stand manipulators and opportunists.
I am annoyed by those envious people, who seek to discredit
the most able, in an attempt to take over their position and seize their talent and success.

My time is too short to discuss headlines.
I’m aiming for the essential, as my soul is in a hurry – not so many candies left.

I like to live with humans, who are very humane.
Humans, who can laugh about their mistakes and are not terribly conceited
About their success.
Humans, who don’t feel prematurely appointed
And humans, who take responsibility.
Humans, who defend human dignity and who are willing
To stand for the truth and uprightness.
It is that, what makes a life worth living.

I want to surround myself with people, who understand, how to touch the hearts of others.
People who have learned through life’s hard punches to grow by tender touches of the soul.

Yes indeed – I’m in a hurry.
I’m in a hurry to live with the intensity only maturity can offer.
I try not to waste any of the sweets, which are still left.
I’m sure, that they will be even more delicious, than those, I already enjoyed.

It is my goal to reach the end – contended. In peace with myself, my loved ones and my
Conscience.

~ Unofficial translation

Editor’s note: Do you like to write poems but don’t know where to share them? We are accepting poetry, photo essays, and creative artwork for upcoming issues. Email [email protected] for more info. Check out some more motivation submissions.