To our fears we could easily succumb
Or try our hardest them to overcome;
Choose to let them rule us and stagnate
Or use them to ourselves motivate.
For when we overcome our fears only
Can we be all we could possibly be.

Others you should not judge, criticise
'Til you have seen the world through their eyes;
Know where the person is coming from,
Know the challenges they overcome.
For on you it does reflect badly,
It says much more about you sadly.
Makes you seem shallow, superficial,
So narrow minded and judgemental.

Often 'tis not what is said
But that which remains unsaid
That so much more can convey,
More than any words can say;
That can cause the most regret,
Can reverberate long yet.

In cotton wool I would wrap you,
Keep you from all harm if I could,
Though I know that if I were to
It would do you more harm than good.

Though to protect you I may yearn
I may not always be there to.
Therefore I must ensure you learn;
Both protect and empower you.

'Tis our nature to be humane
Though we prove time and time again
Just how inhumane we can be,
How we lack in humanity.

Those who can read, though not to choose,
Much more than those who cannot lose;
They are no more intelligent
Than those who want to read but can’t.
Who wants to but can't, one day will;
Though who choose not to, will not still.

Committing to change is the key,
Having a plan, a strategy.
Aims and goals that are within reach,
Not stopping 'til you achieve each.
Guarding against ambivalence,
Embracing the experience.