Respecting Independence
Being free from influence that controls what we do
Is a promise we've made to each other
It's important to help, but I must stand alone
Please don't boss, please don't shout, please don't smother.
If I make a mistake I must fix it myself
But it's hard to resist the intrusion
Of a well-meaning act that's intended to stop
Me from causing regrets or confusion.
When I'm in a place I've not been before
And I'm anxious about the upheaval
I feel in my heart or show on my face
Let me walk, on my own, strong not feeble.
It is tempting to spare the one that you love
The effects of a man-made disaster
But if I want to be at the top of my game
It is I who must learn how to master
The lessons of life - what's expected of me
Even when "on the way" makes me weary
How else will I be independent and strong
Knowing how, standing firm, with you near me?
Whenever I manage to discard the "script"
I depend on just for good measure
I reap the rewards of standing alone
That instills a profound sense of pleasure.
So let me keep moving ahead with my life
With your love and your prayers near to guide me
But when I fall down, let me pick myself up
Let me learn, let me try, walk beside me.
Media Credits
From Marriage is a Balance Beam, a book of poetry by Carole Bos.
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