Self Doubt Poem by David Harris

Sometimes our minds are filled with self-doubt
at things we do in our lives,
yet to others they have a different point of view.
They see the things you do in another perspective.
When I was in self-doubt over my parenting skills,
not sure, if I made all the right decisions
a late friend said to me.
Look you have taken on two children which were not your own, raised them well.
There are many who wouldn’t even attempt
to do what you have done.
Do not ever say you are not a good father.
I am sure your children would have something different to say
if they compared their lives to what they used to have.
You may not be perfect no one ever is,
but you have done the best you could
and that is good enough for everyone.
Although I listened, the self-doubt persists.
Maybe they will never go away who can really tell.

1-2 December 2008


After word:
This poem is based on a conversation I had many years ago with a late friend over my own self doubts.