Folks are born, unique I’d say, without a place, or role to play.

Not at first, no things to do, no agenda to pursue;

Except of course to eat and sleep, become aware of fingers, feet.

Soon we realized there is, right there! an “other,” mother or sweet au pair. 

Things would change, beginning so, that fateful day we heard her “No.”

Perhaps it’s school, some other venue, we learn to follow the outside menu.

Supple ships, chameleon rudders, we choose compromise; conformity clutters.

Decades, experience, first-hand crust;  eclipse life’s Center… the core, the trust.

Of course we die, aware at three: it happens, to others, but no, not me!

Love and Pain the giant two, bring back to center the core, the you.  

Letting go of greed and rage, ego is told, “Vacate the stage!”

Life of fullness, patiently waiting, now emerges, no more rating; 

Away facades, a transformed me! A different birth, new harmony. 

Respect for others now you see, is the life that sets one free:

Transparent, vulnerable, no more veils, is the place where truth prevails.