Lessons

Don't ever expect 
to be respected
by someone you respect
those are your expectations
and they'll disappoint you in the end
but if you do feel disrespected
don't let it change who you are
your abuelita used to say
a star is still a star
even if the clouds get in the way
she would also say
the same people
who say God bless
and wish you much success
can also wish you death
in the same breath
so you must be very aware
of who you share your air
and your energy with 
just trust your gut
and know when to speak up
if you do keep your mouth shut
don't do it for too long 
or you'll become part of what's wrong
and lose sight of what's right
lessons are like people
not one of them are the same
but if you don't learn from them
you'll have no one to blame
but yourself

© 2019