What I Am Most Grateful For

As we near the end of this challenging year,
I reflect on the smiles, the laughs, and the tears.

There is so much to be grateful for, but one thing stands out in my mind,
It’s my Mother- A woman so strong and sweet and beautiful and kind!

You see, almost 23 years ago, my Mom adopted me, a baby girl.
And she is my true hero, my comforter, and my whole entire world!

I appreciate her patience when I’m not doing well.
She’s reached out a hand when I’ve stumbled and picked me up when I fell!

I am so grateful for her, she’s so special, I’d even give my life,
I remain grateful despite the hardships and the strife!

Yes, I am most grateful for my Mother!
I love that warm feeling I get when we embrace each other!

And although one day, she and I may be physically apart,
I’ll always be most grateful for her and her special place in my heart!

My Ideal Self

I look back on myself in the previous years of my life
Thinking: Will I ever have a job, have children, or be a wife?

When I flashback to all my poor choices of the past,
I remember that fake smile that was hidden by a mask.

But now, although I am disabled, I wish to make a difference on this Earth.
You see, something amazing happened and that started with my birth.

I wish to leave a great legacy behind,
To open the eyes and give sight to the blind.

I wish to help others and also to inspire,
You say your flames gone out? So let me light your fire!

All of this put together, creates a self I call “ideal”.
When I think to myself, “Can it ever be accomplished? Can all of it be real?”

So in the end, I say to myself, “Darling, don’t you worry, for there’s an ideal, master plan in place!
And it all starts now with hope, love, happiness, and a smile on your face!”

Why I Deserve Respect

Early in my childhood is when the real trouble started.
It was confusion, it was delusion, and I was very broken-hearted.

But as I got older, I learned to cope with art.
A crayon in my little hand marked the very start.

First, it was drawing- mainly animals and flowers.
Then thinking up poems for hours and hours!

I sing, I write, I play the cello.
And I’m never afraid to ask, “How are you?” or say, “Hello!”

Yes, I’ve been through so very much over all the years.
Now I write to all of those that will hear!

The reason I believe I deserve respect is that I have so very much to give.
Art, music, poetry- a whole life ahead to live!

Last, I deserve respect, honor, and dedication
Because I am a giver of hope, kindness, and inspiration!

Sometimes, you just have to stand up and say,
“I will accomplish something new today!”

You may feel uncomfortable and feel you’re on your own.
Because now, you’re leaving your comfort zone.

You see, you have a whole life ahead of you to make a difference on this earth
It’s a legacy that you’re leaving that started with your birth.

Don’t be afraid to step up and leave behind what’s familiar!
After all, all butterflies start as caterpillars!

You were made to do great things and accomplish much,
You just have to be brave, you don’t have to walk with a crutch!

And if you believe that you can do it and know you’re not alone,
You’ll be just fine when you step out of your comfort zone!