To be unhappy is the choice one makes
when being happy is ignored to seek
more power to ambush high ambition's stakes,
neglectful of the heart in valley bleak.

But having such a choice is freedom's root,
what constitutes its never dimming glow
maintaining strength though shadows in pursuit
on present hope cast doubts from long ago.

To melt one's individuality
into the cauldron of the multitude
will smooth identity so all agree
and dull the selfish wants till all subdued.

Defeat, euphoria? which will you seize?
Which way of living choose in times like these?

-Robert Stone, 4 July 2011