By Daniel Paiz

Another iteration of NaPoWriMo rolls along with some unexpected inspiration from the world of film. Michael Clarke Duncan starred in all kinds of roles, ranging from action and adventure to animated voiceover work. The veteran actor had wanted to play football as a kid, but his mother was scared of Duncan getting hurt; he then switched to acting.

This entry is about learning from your work, your surroundings, and the people in your personal life. The lesson here might seem cliché. The thing is, most important lessons have a twinge of that involved.

Michael Clarke Duncan knew…

Grander than John Coffey

walking to his undeserved doom,

it’s the outlook,

the perspective that pulls one back,

from self-inflicted doom.

There’s a pathway unknown,

a glow from studying ages different,

cutting out yappers to assure allegiance is sufficient.

There’s a presence,

inside you and somewhere in me,

where one has to switch goals to achieve seeing.

The credits aren’t the focus,

the story instead at hand,

the impact upon others,

will be the greatest ovation one stands.

A Green Mile the Kingpin will never traverse,

bigger lesson is the spotlight isn’t where life’s learned.

Whether it’s a Jean, a Marie, or a Peggy,

those who nurtured protected against nature,

and wanted best despite negating some dreams.

Whether from Southside or married into king of a hill,

references are Easter eggs

to understand further and endure.

Advice ruminates and echos from one’s past,

as it sometimes should.