It takes a bit of gumption
to wake up every day
to the fickle world
and yet cleave
to your morals
and values
And not flinch
at the slightest inflection
of disrespect or disdain
from wild ones
And not give in
and mimic
the mockery
of blending in
void of integrity
Standing resplendent
among the dull and dirty
who are no longer enthralled
with the pure light of day
Who’ve renounced their identity
for worldy pleasures
It takes audacity to live
individually, intellectually,
and compassionately.
Maybe do it anyway
Emmanuella Raphaelle
