growth needs grace

We hold the knife,

Yet wonder why we bleed.

We whisper doubt,

Then curse the lack of speed.

We crush our wings,

Before the sky can test them.

We silence dreams,

Before the world can bless them.

We call it honesty,

But it is poison in disguise.

A mirror cracked by judgment,

Reflecting only lies.

Growth needs grace,

Not the sting of scorn.

We cannot heal

From wounds self-torn.

So speak to yourself

As you would to a friend,

With patience,

And the promise to mend.

Because self-criticism is sabotage,

Disguised as truth and care.

But when we choose compassion,

Freedom meets us there.