I was fascinated by magic
Until you chose to disappear

© JL Smith

You're there for me in ways
I cannot yet fully explain
I may not know your name
But our passion is the same

Let me share with you
What I feel, too
It took some time before I knew
This path we share, should be pursued

Through these words
We express our thoughts
Our fears, our desires
When our tongue's in knots

We doubt their power
Question its effect
Yet we continue to write
Adamant to perfect

The mark of an artist
Dedicated, through and through
Piecing together stories of beauty and heartache
For those unable to

We share a connection
Most won't understand
Old souls, storytellers
Stranger, take my hand

And remember, my friend
To believe in your words
From what I've read
It's imperative they're heard

© JL Smith

I'll let you in on a secret
I'm selfish, you see
I give hugs to comfort others
But honestly, it is I in need

© JL Smith

As you read this
Know that I am near

You may not see me
Nor will you hear

But trust me when I tell you,
Place your hand on your heart

Inside--that beating
Is me playing my part

With each thump that's felt
And the space in between

There my love resides
For only you, witnessing the unseen

© JL Smith

I guarantee there will be times
Where their voices will carry you over a mountain

I guarantee there will be times
Where their backs will turn, silencing the cheers and shouting

I guarantee there will be moments
Where your goals seem within reach

I guarantee there will be moments
Where your progress will fall under siege

I guarantee there will be days
Where your dedication is rewarded

I guarantee there will be days
Where your effort is unsupported

I guarantee there will be nights
Where your dreams keep you awake

I guarantee there will be mornings
Where your fears will dominate

But I promise through it all
If you never quit your chase

I guarantee you'll reach your dream
Only you can keep the faith

© JL Smith

It's nights like these
My bed for a queen
Holds me restlessly hostage
Laying alone as I freeze

© JL Smith

I'll wear myself out
Carrying this load
The one I believed I must burden

Embedded in my mind
Long ago
To heed echoes of the more "knowledgeable" person

But I'm learning in time
All they exclaimed as what's best
Doesn't fit my mold, it only worsens

Disregarding their judgement
Abandoning expectations
Looking within to sculpt my greatest version

© JL Smith