I walked away from heavy ties, from constant chaos, constant cries. From people sinking in their pain, who never tried to rise again. They loved the drama, loved the fight, kept choosing shadows over light. And every time I reached my hand, they pulled me down to where they stand. I gave them peace, I gave them calm, offered my voice like healing balm. But some don’t want the peace you send— they only want the same dead end. I love them all, I truly do, I made so many excuses for all of you. I can’t pull you up if you choose to stay down — because both of us will surely drown. I carried weight that wasn’t mine, felt all their storms invade my mind. Until I learned to step aside, and guard my light I used to provide . So I chose distance, chose quiet moments filled with peace. Not out of anger, but because I needed the release. My boundaries aren’t walls of stone— they’re ways for me to come back home. I didn’t leave from spite or fear. I left to keep my spirit clear. By Rosalind P. Steed Reflective Questions?? What is one boundary your soul has been asking for, but you’ve been afraid to honor? Where have you been giving peace to people who only return chaos? What part of you feels lighter when you imagine stepping back?

I’m starting this space with a poem, because that’s the heart of everything here. Each week, I’ll share a new poem from my collection along with reflective questions to sit with. This is a place to slow down, get honest with yourself, and find some clarity again. Awaken at Your Own Risk by Rosalind P. Steed This isn’t comfort. This is clarity. This is the moment you stop lying politely. The mirror won’t flatter. The truth won’t bend. This is where pretending comes to an end. You’ll lose the roles they wrote for you. You’ll grieve the masks you once clung to. But you’ll gain your voice. You’ll gain your name. You’ll walk through fire and never be the same. So read this if you’re ready. Turn back if you must. But know— awakening costs comfort, truth breaks systematic trust. Where do you feel like you’ve been sleeping, and are you finally ready to wake up?