*A Dozen Roses

Dedication to self is a noble quest

It is not easy and there will be many deaths;

Deaths of egos and ideas of separate self,

Deaths to the shells of all that protected

the flower not quite as delicate as thought to be

but powerful, sure and unique-

with a power that is surely unique to each.

Even in a dozen roses you will not find one the same,

each with their own stories and own perfect beauty.

using thorns to protect your delicate self

and slowly blooming when the time is right.

Do not look at your neighbor to compare the journey,

follow your idea of true self and bloom as you may