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