What is a Pioneer?

A person who is willing stand on the

outside

to allow themselves to be muddied

By the truths of life.

To be penetrated by the

Experiences that cause pain

and create character.

To risk failure, humiliation

But never defeat.

To continue to seek and learn

Even after the body wishes to lay down.

To continue to step forward,

In hope and optimism

After life has given all the reasons

to believe there is no viable future.

To hold on to the dream,

Even if no one else can see it or feel it.

A pioneer, simply and subtly

changes the landscape

one step at a time,

not really seeing the change

as the eyes are focused forward.

               ~Lori Ellis-McKinney   (2014)