Friendly
I finally accept what I should have long ago You are not my friend, though neither a foe. All these years, I've idealized So many memories later, I realize I don't need you to be validated by anyone Least of all myself, all said and done. I'm worthy. I'm valuable. Deserving. Priceless. Why I never saw this truth is anyone's guess. But now I do: I see... me Above that, I finally appreciate... me. I make no bones of my imperfections and flaws Yet I embrace my brilliance amongst them all. Should I yet choose to put others first Even above my own interests, From now it will be with a serpent's wisdom For I won't hope reciprocity will finally come. And with a wizened heart, I'll as a dove Withhold from harm and live out love. The gift of my friendship, like a rare pearl I'll gather from swine and now guard well. Careful to bestow On those who know Its weight and the value it commands And will handle it...