Look – I know you grew up
being pushed around  – we all did –
I know you grew up being showed
there was no place for you, unless
you chose your side,
made your allegiance,
and did what you were told
would gain approval

It was like that for us all,
but listen  – remember how
a voice inside protested?
Remember how you knew that somehow
none of this was fair?

Maybe we all do. And maybe
we can save us all if we will notice:
We weren’t designed to be pushed.
We weren’t made to be molded.
The logic of ourselves
comes from the cherished center
where every molecule is given room
to frame the dance and dance it,
to grow up being exactly what it is,
and not be used as pawn or conduit

And you are not a route to someone else’s
distant destination –
you are the place to be.
Right here.
Just as you are.

©Wendy Mulhern
October 9, 2021