As the product of your devoted care,

I’m supposed to be top of my class and do everything with flair 

 Because you were book smart, so too should I achieve this goal 

When you say “rock” I should ask “how far shall I roll?”

As of the oldest of four siblings, one beinghandicapped

I must lead the charge, set the example, always make sure my boots have been strapped 

I must help where I’m needed

     (Which is everywhere all the time)

Display maturity far beyond my childhood that’s receded 

As the team captain, i must perform my best

Faster than her, stronger than you, skilled at any test 

Sacrificing for the success of the team 

Doesn’t matter if I have a personal dream

As a newlywed wife my devotion is for us both

Compromising by doing things he loves that i loathe 

Erasing my last name in place of another

This step launches me into becoming a mother

Motherhood is a dream from which you’ll never wake

Yea, it brings me so much joy and love, but it also does take

Every ounce of my energy, iota of patience

Luckily I know these angels of mine are heaven-sent.

more than half a lifetime I’ve lived for everyone but me

Now, I find it too quiet, too overwhelming, too free.

Wondering - who I am, what are my hobbies, what is my story?

I’ve devoted my life to others thinking it would bring me glory 

A reminder to readers to never lose your sense of self

You are a gift that should be shared, not hidden away on a shelf.