Self Actualization

Self Actualization

It sounds complicated to reach

Like an equation

That you don’t have time to solve

They put it on a pedestal and

Describe it as something in a far away land

Especially if

You have brown skin

Maslow put it at the top of the pyramid

A structure that our ancestors built

See we were set behind, without choice

Generations ago

When our people were taken from home and forced to try to

Survive

So for generations we have been taught to

Earn money

Work hard, twice as hard

Never quit

Dry your tears

Be disciplined

Don’t talk back

Sacrifice

Great words that work if you

Balance them

With positive affirmations

And actions  

Because now we survive

But in order to live

We have to self actualize

You have food on your plate now

Ask your family what nourishment means to them

You made the dean’s list now

Go ask your sisters about their artistic inclinations

You play ball now

Heal your mind and your body

Your hard work is beautiful

But my friend unless you take care of your mind, your soul

One day you will have to, start all over again

Explore your passions

Your creativity

Your love

Your fears

Your darkness

Your light

Your happiness

These hold your truth

Create art and tell stories

Leave a legacy behind

It sounds complicated to reach

Like an equation

That you don’t have time to solve

Now we survive

But in order to live

We have to

Self Actualize