Lessons 

Not everyone smiles with a heart that is true ,

For envy can sparkle while hiding from view,

Convenience is love till the season is done,

They’re there when it pays, disappear when it’s gone.

Some hear what they want, not the words that you say,

A closed mind won’t open though you clear the way,

Respect isn’t gifted, it rises with deeds,

A title means nothing if it fails to lead.

Kindness unguarded is easy to spend,

A giver must know where the gift has to end,

Some only will see what your value was worth,

The moment you vanish, the absence gives birth.

Most settle for comfort, not courage or fire,

Few stand in the storm when the trial is dire,

They cast out their pain with a finger of blame,

Projecting the shadows they cannot reclaim.

But know this in loss: not all leaving is wrong,

Some exits are blessings that push us along,

For all have their flaws, and you do so too,

Accept what is human but keep wisdom in view.

Cathrine Hottran 2025