Caterpillar? No, Butterfly, a poem
When she first started the job, she recalled saying, "I don’t know what I’m doing,” but this time, she admonished the negative self-talk.
“You won’t say that again!” she promised. When she first started the job, she recalled saying, "I don’t know what I’m doing,” but this time, she admonished the negative self-talk. “You won’t say that again!” she promised.
She took on the executive director position at the non-profit in 2019, just before the pandemic. It was her first time working in that role, and she had felt challenged. “It’s a lot,” she said.
However, while many organizations survived the pandemic, hers thrived. She had discovered a strength in herself she didn't know existed. It wasn’t easy for her to accept compliments, so it wasn't easy to accept the victory. “I don’t want to seem arrogant,” she shared. But she wanted the poem to be a reminder that it’s okay to feel good about yourself.
Recently, two staff members had resigned, and a part of her felt responsible. Her mind knew it was because of money, but insecurities about her performance resurfaced. "I know it’s not personal, but it's like I have a devil on one shoulder and an angel on the other whispering in my ear."
Listener Poet D’ete Blackshire
Practicum Poem
May 2024
Caterpillar? No, Butterfly
To be needed is to be valued.
Don’t listen to what the devil says.
Position is a consequence of talent!
Success comes from listening to angels.
Their wing songs lead to the heights!
We can all soar in heaven, if we learn to accept a compliment.
No matter what the devil told you.
Thank you is not arrogant. Thank you is kind. Thank you is bold humility.
It’s invoked on bended knee, because we need our service honored.
Praise comes from doing the good work!
And the heart wants to know it’s on the right side of the struggle.
Those mirrors are essential. It it takes a brave vulnerability to admit it.
That’s why goodbyes can sometimes bruise. Even when it’s for the greater good, it pokes on our tender.
Don’t heed what the devil scolds!
Facing a back feels like rejection, but it’s not personal.
Acceptance comes from listening to angels.
The wiser things inside name it an opportunity to get to know ourselves.
Follow that!
Find the strength to be led by discovery, and till it with hopeful yearns from your uncharted heart.
