Growing Poem by Anjolaoluwa Taiwo

Growing is learning.
It is adapting to the feeling of loss and pain,
It is finding peace and contentment in things once overlooked,
Acknowledging the sadness in some old things,
And understanding that change is part of growing.

Growing is forgetting.
One thing I've realized is time changes our perspective,
And it would pass.
It is understanding that nothing lasts forever.

Growing is love—
The love of our childhood and youth that shone brightly,
The love of those we've known,
The love of those we still know,
And those we are yet to know.
It is understanding that finding love in every place is a blessing.

Growing is getting used to pain,
Knowing you'll get hurt,
Knowing you've been hurt,
Knowing you've healed in some places and are still wounded in others.
It's realizing pain is part of life,
And knowing when to prioritize yourself is growing up.

Growing up is adjusting your expectations,
Knowing nobody is perfect,
Knowing the feeling of disappointment,
And being able to apologize.
It's understanding that maturity is the best comeback.

Growing is imperfect.
There's joy in knowing you're growing,
That tomorrow is a better today,
That, irrespective of tomorrow's picture, you got there.
It is loving every aspect of yourself.

Growing is being able to find peace in the past
And look into the future with peace,
Knowing that even though you don't have all the answers,
You'll get there.
It's finding peace.