I’d much rather listen to the beautiful songs
birds sing to the world than sing one myself.
For, you see, my voice is quiet and timid.
Rather than seek my opinion,
I pursue others.

Myself is the last to think of;
others are much more important.
Whether it is their opinion
Or physical fancy.

Emotions are always there
when I don’t want them to be.
They get in the way and
interfere with my obstacles making me
need a break from all the running.

Other people decide my fate:
What path will I take?
Which is the safest?
Who will be there with me
during my long walk?
Ask them because I have no clue.

Knowledge is important
with every step I take.
What makes up the stepping stones I walk on?
Knowledge is not only the start
but the end, as well.

Connection is important and
though they say that spending time
with others are key,
I’d much rather be reading
a page-turning story
confined to the trees alone.

What is wrong with me?
Why am I important to some
and to others none?
These are questions I cannot answer
but it is the song that I sing--
The Song of Myself.

-Cheyanne Markley