subtext

I show disdain for the praise of others

yet we’re all such communal animals

that the smallest word of kindness grows

beyond the constrained measures of my heart

I feel guilt for harboring such pride

afraid of being seen as arrogant

for taking joy in my accomplishments

however small and insignificant

the seeds I plant and protect as they grow

give me more than merely something to do

there’s value in being the one in the room

value in being one who sees value

so to keep me warm through this long cold night

I once again gather up my scraps of praise