Advice to my Younger Self - April, 15, 2025

don’t be the fish

that never leaves

the safety of the school

or the bird that lingers

too long in the neighborhood

you were raised

let mistakes be a first option

and bravery the goal for

the risks you need to take

get out there, the world

will reveal who you are

if you take the chance

gamble with your life -

the reward will be losing

a lowball value

don’t be afraid to be kind

and may love embarrass you

and all the ones

who hold back affection

when it’s dying to come out