My dear one,
it doesn’t matter what
they say or what they
think or who they tell
you to be-
stop trying to fold yourself
into others’ shapes
and sizes.
What matters is
what you love and how
you love and how you
choose to be your
brightest self in a
world clouded
by gray.
And the only way,
my dear sweet girl,
you are going to find
your bright
is by learning to keep
saying yes!
to that still small voice
inside yourself until
she becomes a roar.
And you a burning shooting star
who can’t help but light
the night.
sunshine in winter 
Love this! I’m trying to teach these lessons to my daughters but it is so hard when outside forces bear more weight than mom’s advice.
Thank you and yes, it’s so so true! A lot of times I write the kinds of things I wish I could go back and tell my younger self. What a challenge to teach this to daughters today in light of all the information coming at them in this world. I imagine, though it may not always seem it, that your words bear more weight than they seem, even if your girls are holding them on reserve until a time in life where they are really ready to receive them. They are incredibly fortunate to have a mother trying to give them such a beautiful message. Blessings to you and have a lovely day! 🙂
I read your poem to my daughters today and they really liked it. We were talking about friendships and their goals for the upcoming school year, so the time was so perfect to share your poem.
Oh that’s lovely! And such a good topic to talk with them about- I still think about what is friendship as an adult and how we find those people who support our real selves and support us in our truth and growth. I’m so happy these words were timely!
Thanks for the words of encouragement!