At Sixteen Poem by Beloved Adejuyigbe

Do not attempt to charm boys at sixteen,
For at sixteen, don't bestow kisses on the boy next door,
At this age, let your essence shine,
As a teenager, embracing God's wishes and more.

Do not wander the downtown nooks,
Nor reveal to boys their attractiveness,
At sixteen, goodness should be your guide,
Boredom must not become your sole address.

But how do you banish boredom's grip,
When you don't offer boys a smile?
When you refrain from wandering for miles?
How do you enjoy life's simple sip,
When you choose not to partake?

Consider the unpleasant breath that may reside,
Think of a glorious path to achieve victory,
Avoid smiles for those notorious in stride,
And these choices will keep you free,
Free from everlasting boredom's sway,
For you belong to a kingdom far away,
Where your starry achievements pave the way.

At sixteen, don't ponder driving tomorrow,
Delay thoughts of the distant future's call,
At sixteen, avoid the urge to strip or borrow,
At sixteen, let go of cravings, big or small.

Your aspirations should transcend desires,
At sixteen, you inspire and explore,
You acquire wisdom from life's vast fires,
Inquire about the world, its beauty, and more.

At sixteen, persevere and sweat,
Your thoughts should surpass six fleeting things:
Sexes, exes, troubles, false pretense, quests, and requests,
For you, at sixteen, are a voice against the world's contests.