I know why the caged bird sings... do you?

At the risk of sounding a bit cliche, I must share one of my absolute favorite poems of all time.  Maya Angelou really does hit the nail on the head when it comes to life lessons, in my opinion.  I rediscovered this poem not too long ago and it has stuck with me.  I find it pertains to the place I am at right now, both in writing and in life.  So read, if you like:

I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings

The free bird leaps
on the back of the wind
and floats downstream
till the current ends
and dips his wings
in the orange sun rays
and dares to claim the sky.

But a bird that stalks
down his narrow cage
can seldom see through
his bars of rage
his wings are clipped and
his feet are tied
so he opens his throat to sing.

The caged bird sings
with fearful trill
of the things unknown
but longed for still
and his tune is heard
on the distant hill for the caged bird
sings of freedom

The free bird thinks of another breeze
and the trade winds soft through the sighing trees
and the fat worms waiting on a dawn-bright lawn
and he names the sky his own.

But a caged bird stands on the grave of dreams
his shadow shouts on a nightmare scream
his wings are clipped and his feet are tied
so he opens his throat to sing

The caged bird sings
with a fearful trill
of things unknown
but longed for still
and his tune is heard
on the distant hill
for

the caged bird

sings of freedom.

Up to this point in my life, I have been coasting.  Yes, I have accomplished things.  Yes I have been busy with getting married, having kids, moving out of state, blah blah blah.  But to my own standards, I have been putting along comfortably, taking no risks and therefor reaping little benefit.

Well, it's time to change all that.  This poem really struck a chord with me because I think one of its main themes is the importance of living life to its fullest and appreciating the opportunities we are given.  It's time to sing like a free bird and strive for excellence!

Now, if I could just finish this novel...