Competitiveness
Attempting to beat others in order to gain first place,
Is hardly to our credit, not something we should embrace.
There’s not a doubt in my mind, no, it’s very clear to me,
That a win via someone’s loss is a hollow victory.
Such flawed success is dependant on someone’s failure, friend,
Such I wouldn’t be proud of, certainly wouldn’t defend.
Ensuring someone’s loss by doing all that you can —
So that you can win instead — isn’t the hallmark of a man.
No, the competitive spirit isn’t one I’d foster, friend,
For it’s such a selfish thing, and who knows where it might end.
It brings out the worst in folk, both competitor and fan,
Hence those sad things we’ve seen since competitiveness began.
Many have become distraught, depressed, even angry,
At their loss to someone else; upsetting friends and family.
Such loss can lead to jealousy, or folk acting moodily,
And there have also been times when some have acted grievously.
The horrid killer instinct in such territory is seen,
Which is an indication that it’s not a healthy scene.
Anything that would fuel such can’t be something that is sound,
Hence why greed and corruption with competitiveness is found.
Where there’s competitive sports, aggression will occur,
For by its very nature, competition such will stir.
Its object after all, friend, isn’t friendship, but rivalry,
Hence why the desire to win can cool friendships rapidly.
Such also generates stress, physically and emotionally,
Which can take a heavy toll, and often, so pointlessly.
Our body’s not for thrashing, nor our mind, I might add too,
Or sooner than later, they may shout such wasn’t wise to do.
Just like we see with gambling, many get hooked on winning,
Naturally, their first flush of success being the beginning.
The adrenalin that flows, gives them an addictive rush,
And euphoric at their win, words promoting such soon gush.
But like coming off a drug, they soon find there’s a downside,
For when others win instead, downward their emotions slide.
But so sure they’ll win again, or at least, have a good chance,
They’re back for another fix, another win, yes, the gambler’s dance.
Sadly, competitiveness is striving against others,
It’s just putting ourselves first; yes, selflessness it smothers.
Thus, friend, competitiveness is not a path I’d follow,
It’s enslaving, it’s addictive, it’s flawed, and it’s hollow.
Yes, I’d rather put others first, never for winning thirst.
By Lance Landall
You might also like to read my Christian poem "The Folly Of Winning".
