This Takes A Certain Bravery Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

The next time you awaken,
Do not generalize your negativity.
Go straight to the nearest mirror,
And thank God you were blessed...
With the ability to complain.
That's right!
Thank God you are able to pinpoint,
What irritates you the most.

And after you have done that...
Once looking at yourself,
After you have awakened...
Think about what The Creator has to tolerate.
Twenty four hours EVERYDAY.
And you can not be grateful enough,
To say something kind to yourself?
Even in the midst of facing such ugliness alone?

This takes a certain bravery.
Be thankful you are able to do it.
In fact...
Thank everyone you may come in contact.
They are the ones you should really learn to appreciate.