Sonnet for Class

Title explains it.  Had to write a sonnet for class.  I didn't really follow the typical path of a sonnet.  Expand upon idea in second, change tone in third, finish with some strong point.  I did use the "but" on the 9th line like one is supposed to and I tried to follow the format, but I don't know if is close enough.

Dealings

The flow of present batters fragile minds

Like rivers that converge to center point

The brave who jump act mighty, but are blind

The unprepared men always disappoint.

The ones that understand their chosen path

Spend years preparing ships for going down

and taking knowledge so the mighty’s wrath

is turned to power. Willing gets the crown.

But some like I don’t seek the paths just named

Instead are pleased by dipping in the stream

The time so small to not be shamed or maimed

But not enough to move, progress, or dream.

The joys of life, though seem to never leave

Flow faster than a stream one could conceive.