A Seven Year Burden

A Seven Year Burden
By: Tyler Ross

“And so, your time is now," he said. That wishful thinking makes you brain-dead. Clear your mind and expect less. Your vulnerability put to the test. Careful now, that’s too much thinking. You’ll fall overboard and continue sinking. Hopelessness or fearlessness. Use your voice to relieve your stress. “I don’t believe you’ve learned a thing. Always settling for anything.” Oh, is this how it will always be? Way behind. Struggling. Reliving this apathy. “Tell me you’re giving up on me.” A lost cause. Hesitant pause. Never learn. Ignore the applause. Self motivation. Acclimation. Confidence. Silly frustration. The change began. Suddenly a new plan. He could feel the heart in his chest. A little patience honors progress. “Have you ever felt so well?” He kept at it and before he knew it. A nice trophy, he wouldn’t sell. Sometimes, he said, “It’ll get the best of you.” Stay true and move along. Distance yourself. Keep calm. For you’re becoming a man. A man, who isn’t afraid to belong.