It takes courage
to live out loud and authentically
acknowledge ones failings
and be honest
apologize and recognize
instead of hiding behind false words
spoken behind backs
or pretending
to be something
or so many
that we are not.
Bravery
to speak at all times
with all people
in one voice
hard to see in oneself
and harder yet
to find in others.
One day maybe you’ll get there
may be by force
but hopefully
by choice.