The Foolish Measure
The people who compare people
like the specs of phones and cars,
slice, dice, then calculate
based on who they think you are,
what they see you have,
or imagine you have not.
Of your truth, they have no clue
but this they have forgot.
They’ve never seen you face a trial
nor seen you shed a tear.
Never heard your tummy rumble
from hunger or crippling fear.
They’ve never bleached a night with you
nor rubbed an achy shoulder.
Never stood with you beneath
the weight of crushing boulders.
These people who compare people
should be pitied, then ignored.
They choose judgment as a pastime
’cause they’re unfulfilled and bored.
They’re dying from self-hatred
wrapped up in self-deceit,
then buried under shame, pride,
And cakey layers of vanity.
Self-love and self-acceptance
are life’s biggest trial and test.
In this there is no competition,
no one good, better, nor best.
Alone you’ll climb your mountain,
learning who you are and are to be and
to face your hidden shadow:
The you that’s broken, and ugly.
At the end of this lonely climb,
roaming shadows like nomads;
we embrace our inner battles
as mates and old comrades.
We smile with ups and downs
and laugh at fails and wins.
We greet each door that slams shut,
as the new journey to begin.
Firm faith in seasons cycling round.
Know no’s are earnest guides;
for each love lost, a greater is found.
From challenges never hide.
We must honor our personal path –
our trials, gifts and destiny –
for in each way I resemble you
there’s 10 more unique to me.
Not one “benchmark” on your journey
is identical to mine.
Add every detail you know of me,
you’ll never summarize nor define.
The people who compare people
see the book, the ink, the pen;
and so miss as the story unfolds.
Life’s plan they’ll never comprehend.
– Dania “The Auracle” Moncrieffe
