Declan C. Onuoha

Richmond Hill, NY, USA

Declan has been writing poetry and reading poems since he was in his late teens. He is a Licensed Substitute-Teacher with New York City Board of Education; a Social-Science Tutor with City University of New York. He is an active member of his church and a prolific writer. He enjoys speaking engagements, singing songs and sports activities. Declan has had his articles published in the local newspapers, newsletters and magazines. His first entry for poetry contest was published by the National Library of Poetry. He dreams of writing a collection of his poetry and an autobiography which he plans to dedicate to God, loved ones and friends. Declan believes, "Writing poetry frees his mind of brain drain and emotional strain for human welfare."

Endurance

Everyone needs endurance,
But not everybody puts that into practice.

Certain situations consider endurance,
But not in every circumstance.

When making things happen, we need endurance;
When watching things happen, we need endurance.

Solving a realistic problem would require it;
Any uncertainty must seek for it.

One who cannot endure suffering, keeps on worrying,
But an enduring person keeps hope alive.

Though we may be concerned with impossible dreams,
But with God, all things are possible.

Sometimes, we cannot help certain situations,
But remember, endurance can and will make a difference.

What African Personality Should Stand For

A-Allow constructive plans for progress to prevail.
F-Follow the leaders with great vision for all.
R-Remember to accommodate others in activities.
I-Indicate specific steps to adopt for developments.
C-Coordinate and control the use of resources.
A-Admit it when you are wrong.
N-Never underestimate the power of positive thinking.

P-Persevere in preserving and propagating our cultures.
E-Emphasize overcoming obstacles and enduring glory.
R-Resolve to tolerate and reconcile people's criticisms.
S-Selfless services must be practiced.
O-Obey the rules of law and order.
N-Notice the priorities and deadlines set.
A-Accept responsibility for your actions and results.
L-Liberate people from poverty, complacency and miseducation.
I-Involve in worthy causes as much as possible.
T-Teach society about the true positions of issues.
Y-Yield by God's grace for success and fulfillment.

What Sort Of Life Do You Have?

When you grow so rich, you get many friends,
When you become famous, you make many friends.

When sickness comes, you lose those friends,
And when poverty comes, you lose those friends.

You are passing away; they are going away,
You are suffering much; they are sneaking much.

Everything you are will pass away,
Only what you do for God will remain.

What sort of life do you have if your friends
can only be counted on in good times?
Misty absence without time
the night of gloom is sailing
Ash and sea are mingled.