More words of encouragement. Also from August 2011.
Do what you want to, or I’ll think you insincere,
or at the very least, I’ll say that you’re unclear
about who you claim you are. My advice?
Find a way to be that goes beyond just “nice.”
There’s an alternative. I know you have it in you.
First you must believe it and then you’ll begin to
see the changes that you want to be in the world
and find that your oyster is full-laden with pearls.
I know the task feels giant-esque, so take it slow.
“Rome was not built in a day!”--all that rot you know.
But good rot it is that’s stood the test of time;
rot that’s been around so long approaches the sublime.
Look, I’ll be right by your side, whisp’ring in your ear.
Just be still and listen; all will become clear.
Declaimed here: https://aprillynnjames.com/track/4735371/do-what-you-want-to-3-2026