If I’m Being Honest
A Poem of Self Awareness ~
I’m afraid to say what I am
for fear in my head it’s inflated
and wouldn’t survive critique.
But I know what I’m not…
I’m not immoral, amoral, a bully, or a bigot.
I’m not entitled, unfair, a liar, or a hypocrite.
I’m not a schemer, so there’s that.
And I know I’m not cruel.
I don’t exploit weakness
or use leverage as a tool.
I don’t seek to gain advantage.
but I’m no sucker either,
and I’m not anybody’s fool.
I’m not violent, dishonest, or greedy,
nor irresponsible, or unreliable either.
I’m never late.
And I’m not afraid anymore.
I am a defender of the helpless,
a wisher for the hopeless.
compassionate for the victims,
sorrowful for the dying, dead, and surviving.
I’m a soldier.
I may have been arrogant, annoying
and rude on more than one occasion.
But I’m a thinking person and I love my people.
I’m a provider.
Once in a while I can be defensive,
self-deprecating and judgmental.
And then and again a wee bit selfish,
self centered and stubborn too.
I’m a man.
Ridge © 2021
