Paragraph
i’ve spent
hours on others
i can’t
make them do anything
still
i type
declare what you’re going to do
or not
i am merely your cane
i support you
your steps
so
hey
listen to me
Hush little baby
don’t say a word
mama’s not gonna buy you a damn thing
regift the love
mama’s gonna write you
a paragraph
a recipe
the directions
a how-to
a DIY if you will
love
yourself
step one
do not
wedge yourself in the past
step two
admit it
they are bad for you
swallow your pride
rid your guilt
step three
move
the fuck on
step four
stop asking for attention from people who can’t give it to you
in the way you’re asking
step five
be your own
friend
mix
bake at 450°F for at least
the rest of your life
cool
serve
to yourself
a well-cooked
properly seasoned
life
yo
love is not a canned good
you can’t store it
for later
especially after you’ve opened it
you are a record player
stop playing
the same songs
you’re getting yourself
scratched up
take your own damn advice