We each come into this world as a baby, with no purpose other than to simply be. As we learn and grow, so to do the expectations of the world around us. Even as we learn to live in this world with it’s specific rules and norms it’s essential that we keep our deeper self free from becoming entangled with unimportant standards that stifle our innate self.

Hidden

The true me is hidden deep inside,

For you see, my whole life I was taught to hide.

“Don’t be so loud,” from one. “Speak up!” said another,

And I was left confused, trying simply to not be a bother.

Where were they leading me? What was it that they wanted?

Was I okay as I was? The questions left me haunted.

For everyone, it seemed, wanted something different from me,

But what no one at all wanted was for me to simply be,

My true self, the one that called out deep from my inner being,

If I didn’t act just right it seemed others were hurt by what they were seeing.

And so I slowly shut it off, the person that I am,

Unless I was rewarded with compliments from every hand.

For I could tell distinctly if they approved or shook their heads,

At how I acted and who I was, “Don’t be you. Why don’t you change instead?

And so I did and became the one always quick to please,

And found that all I had to do was ignore my every need.

Second guess and question, always looking for approval,

And when it wasn’t given I’d quickly learn what needed removal.

So now here I am with my true self hidden deep beneath the expectations,

For so long, instead of listening to myself, I looked only for congratulations.

That I was following the norm, being just who society thought was right,

And as I did, it slowly muted the brightness of my free and childhood light.

But now that I am older, I know what is really true,

Freedom comes when the truest you is bravely brought into full view.

(c) Shalyce Cluff

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