Chapter 1: Finding Joy in Vulnerability

In a space of camaraderie, we abandon heaviness,

Sharing laughter, confronting our fears,

Until we can disperse the pressures and the crowd,

And dissolve the shadows that provoke our self-judgment.

Why inflict suffering and defeat upon yourself,

Chastising your image with withered cries?

You are not merely an afterthought; do not carry its sorrow,

Loneliness should not prompt you to languish at your feet.

Not if there's no reason, only retreat to embrace,

If you tarnish your spirit without uttering a word,

Or reaching for warmth, for the comfort of shared light,

Without acknowledging the equal weight you bear in your heart.

You waver between spontaneity and uncertainty,

Words left unsaid, passions unvoiced,

Yet never directing them toward their true target or love,

Dreaming, envisioning, yet never daring.

There are hidden depths within the storm

And beyond the boundaries of unrequited affection,

Untouched, unlived, the world a flicker of doubt,

Shadows wandering like outlaws in a forbidden place.

The first video, "4 Signs It's Time to Step Out in Faith (and Leave the Doubt BEHIND!)" by Melody Alisa, explores the importance of recognizing when to embrace faith over fear and how to let go of self-doubt.

He withstands the weight of countless miles,

Hopelessly crushed under rejection and denial,

Resisting the warmth of hands that linger,

Yet cherishing the imprint of each fingertip.

Avoiding connection but yearning for every gaze to linger,

Eternal joy you endure in this vow,

Reflecting only in the stillness of the night,

Of all the ache of the rightful past.

You encounter fury and sorrow,

Gaps as vast as oceans seeking solace,

On bridges of stone and banks, you stand,

Forgiving and forgetting the chronicles of humanity.

Basking in the sun’s embrace in the sweltering heat,

You remain stubborn and steadfast in your place,

Staining your path with isolation and its burdens,

Diminishing pain to a mere tremor.

Introductions only stretch as far as the edge,

Where the audience bears witness to who is honest,

There’s little gained in your resolute demeanor,

And insufficient elevation to inspire what you attempt to absolve.

We cannot mark time until love becomes fevered,

Or impose conditions as if it will always thrive,

The void does not promise us this,

Hope cannot exist for the dualities that coexist.

Chapter 2: The Illusion of Self-Doubt

Do not believe you are too fragile for the crowd,

They will see through your cloudy uncertainties,

Reason cannot be found amidst this chaos,

Love is not constrained by time or daily rhythms.

Symbols arise where the powerful gaze,

You lower your head while protesting softly,

The battles and conflicts have all come to debate,

Who do you decide to lead into possibility?

The second video, "Papa Roach & Carrie Underwood - Leave A Light On (Talk Away The Dark)," serves as a reminder of resilience and the importance of maintaining hope in the face of darkness.

This poem continues my reflections on our hesitations in life. You can find more insights here:

Chapter 3: Remember This When You’re Afraid

We often spend endless moments chastising ourselves for our perceived flaws, overanalyzing every interaction and choice. Each instance of procrastination feeds into that anxiety, weaving through the fabric of our lives. Why do we subject ourselves to such torment repeatedly? If you haven't heard it recently—know that you are deserving of goodness. You are worthy of whatever brings you joy. Go forth and chase that happiness. Forgive yourself for any past wrongs and strive for better. Be gentle, not only with others but with yourself as well. What purpose does it serve if we squander our existence on guilt? If we allow our time, which is always limited, to be consumed by misery, what do we truly gain? You possess unique gifts; you are a gift. Treat yourself with kindness. Take care in all your endeavors, and let that love illuminate your path as well.