Friends and family,

I have decided to delay the next part of my story for one week.  In its place I am sharing a poem I wrote.  For many years I have been unlearning some life patterns that at times held me back.  The process has been long and still continues to evolve.

Let Me Live

Dear conscience, be my guide,

not my prison guard.

Show me the way,

point out what is right,

what is wrong,

then step aside,

let me decide

and take the risks of choices,

let me learn about consequences,

let me be me.

Dear conscience, don’t

cause me to feel guilty,

I need to feel free,

to not worry or fear;

I need to trust myself,

to find a place,

                                                  that appeases my quest,

          perhaps somewhere

between right & wrong.

Dear conscience, I’m not

asking you to leave,

I’m asking you to walk beside me.

Prod me, but don’t corral me;

be a gentle reminder,

respect my decisions.

I need to find my truth,

let me live my life.