Something to think about on the day of my birth, in addition to yummy cake and prezzies!

Listen up
Then just pipe down
Speak up
but don’t speak too loud

Don’t be dull
but don’t be wild
Be fun
but don’t act a child

Age gracefully
but don’t look old
Know your mind
but do as you’re told

Embrace your curves
but don’t get fat
Love yourself
but not like that

Know your worth
but not too much
Else they might feel
inadequate

Wear make-up,
look natural though
Stand your ground
but don’t say no

Choose the right path
but for who?
Right for them
or right for you?

Right for who
they’d rather see
Or right for
who you’d rather be?

Listen up
I’ll tell you this
This life of yours
is yours to live

Becky Hemsley 2023
Excerpted from: What the Wild Replied