when your parents did not parent

in a way that was absolute best

for individual you,

 

–this often is the case since even

for the best of parents, children

come in all shapes and varieties

 

without manual included, and

were parented by imperfect

people as well—

 

then you must learn to parent

yourself better than what

was received.

 

embrace this responsibility

serious, learn your own ways

well and do your level best

 

to direct yourself as needed.

to soften edges sharp within

your very own heart,

 

to engage with process healing.

because however many left

your days may or may not be,

 

each and every one of these

has the prospect to be better

and more richly lived

 

with even a modest amount

of intention.

 

and if the adult you does not

take up this task urgent,

there is only yourself

to chide.

 

Heather Pound 2023

Photo by Suzi Kim on Unsplash