A movie, seen once long ago,
which then, just entertained;
I sense, now much more meaning;
other insights, have been gained!

My past reaction, narrow was;
I sense that--realize
my old perspective missed a lot;
it's wider now, in size!

These people, I relate to more;
they're not just strange and odd!
They're not these distant foreigners!
No! With them, now I plod!

I sense the ordeal they do face!
Their lives are rocked and tripped!
It's not just drama settled on
and placed, then in the script.

Their challenges aren't only
something dreamed up as a ploy
to bring excitement to the scene;
which crowds will then enjoy!

The characters aren't simply folks
so unlike those we know;
who lived in times we'll never touch--
that ended long ago!

The burdens placed upon them states
they're on a treach'rous ride,
which all of us will be upon
should fate so choose-- decide!

Relating to them, now I do;
their pains, I truly feel!
Then gratefulness does come to me;
I've not bore their ordeal.

I find this angle such a gift!
I'm glad...been made aware!
They don't just pass the time, these shows;
life's lessons they do share!

Within the story's plot are clues
to help us through our day;
it gives us hope--we can move on;
we'll yes! get through some way!

And counting on established views
can seem the key to hold.
But these can get upended so
we're tossed out in the cold!

One Boadway classic preaches this
and hands out so much proof
that we're all perched unsteadily--
all fiddlers on the roof!

And Tevya calls this rooftop act
"a most unlikely sight!"
"It does not mean a thing," he shouts;
"but then again, it might!"

When first I saw this movie,
zero kinship did I find!
...was all 'bout Jewish peasants;
their traditions so enshrined.

And these did represent to them
their only foothold, sure;
the one thing they could count upon--
that was to them, secure!

But soon, all they depended on
was gone, to their dismay!
The one firm footing that they had
was taken, now away!

And what they lost seemed silly
from my former point of view;
but now I sense their loss was huge!
Such turmoil did ensue!

So even our firm heritage
can, from our grasp, be torn.
We do not know just what shall change;
all fresh is each day's morn.

So oft' times tragic circumstances
with, we must contend.
Though, it may seem that all's been lost,
one thing,...can still depend.