Inspired by David Clifford.
That teacher who believed
in you. It was decades ago
but the memory is fresh.
Who saw potential
where others saw none.
I can see the tears rising as I ask
“What shaped him that way?”
You’re not sure. He just was.
But perhaps someone played that role
in his life too.
A catalyst for finding meaning
for so many ships setting out.
What does his legacy mean
for us, for me. How do I go about
not trying to inscribe my name
on stone buildings that will crumble
but inputting into lives,
weaving into hearts
that beat and grow.
I give myself permission
to laugh, to cry, to ask questions
I give myself permission
To embrace others
I give myself permission
To stay curious
I give myself permission
To be truly present
