Give me a hard path to follow;
I will choose sturdy equipment;
Ask questions before I start
So I can plan and succeed.
Bury my dreams in a mysterious hole;
I will remove what covers them
So they can see light again,
Hold my attention.
Tell me I can't reach what's twice taller than me;
I will network, borrow a stepping stone,
Add it to my treasure trove
Of tricks already accomplished.
Withhold your friendships because, in your eyes,
Blindness makes me less than whole;
I will regret our mutual loss,
Find greener pastures.
If my patience and performance don't equal your altitude expectations,
Influence your attitudes;
I'll reluctantly nod,
Understanding that you don't yet understand.
- Marilyn Brandt Smith