In the Mind of a Poor Young Man

Sometimes you have to let love pass you by in order to save yourself of further humiliation. It takes a real man to do that. A strong man knows when to step back and trust his instincts; it is a process of healing and survival.

————

You are silent this morning. 

I know, we just broke last night.

But we still have to ride 

In the same elevator

– Up and down, down and up.

In fact, we still

 Will see each other at lunch.

Girl, swallow your pride. 

This is life. Face the facts. 

I’m only a guy with degree. 

Born poor. I’m not rich. Living

From pay check to pay check.

I cannot give what you need.

Girl, merry Him. I’ll be fine.

Your father is right.

It takes years to crack

The glass ceiling;

It takes years to climb 

The corporate latter

And get the spot that really matters.

I said, “I don’t love you” - I lied.

I’d rather say it and let you go free. 

I’d rather see you 

Achieving your dream. 

Girl, you’ll do fine.

I really love you, 

But I am stepping back.

One day you’ll grow up.

You’ll stop running late

Or complain about the prices

Of Starbucks café; or the cold,

Or the rain, or the spot on your shoes…

Don’t cry, Girl. I know, life is not fair.

I am not weak,

But I cannot keep you

In struggle with me.

I know, I agree 

- The love cannot be borrowed,

I hope one day you’ll forgive.

Not now, not even tomorrow.

But I am letting you free.

Girl, I hope 

The sigil that I carved in your heart

Will help you to go through this life.

By Petrouchka Alexieva

From: United States