It is thanks to them
that I am able to be on my own
for years and decades.
They planted the seed of Love,
and it will forever live within me.

It is thanks to them
that I don’t have to corrupt myself,
sell, manipulate, deceive or beg
to be liked
or validated,
as I have all that I need inside me.

Yes, I’ve been deceived,
confused and made to doubt myself.
This always came from others.
There was a time when I thought that
others always knew better than me,
or that they were well-meaning, like us,
coming from a humble household
where people respected each others
and people of value were valued.
Everyone was known for what they actually were,
and not given false praise for what they weren’t.

But not in the times we live in.
These concrete societies
have inverted it all.

Deceit upon deceit upon deceit.

Still, within me:

Childlike Awe.
Innocence.
Simplicity.
Acceptance.
Respect.
Hope.
Compassion.
Values they have instilled in me.

It’s the fuel that keeps me going,
the knowing of who I am,
this permanent light
that’s never put out,
although at times it’s dimmed
and I think it’s gone.
But it’s not.

It’s strong and permanent.

This beacon
that guides and inspires others who seek,
and those who didn’t know they were seeking.

It is the same light
that dazzles those in the shadows,
for it reflects what they lack.
Regardless,
it embraces it all,
as it just is.

Even when I crumble,
there’s always a pulsating ember
that remains,
hidden at the bottom.
It’s always there
to remind me.

Thank you,
Mother and Father.
Grandparents.
Uncles and Aunties.
Sister.
Thank you for giving me
the most important gift of all.
Thank you for making me.
I love you.