In the cracks of life, I yearn not to miss the ability to feel passion and indignation. Even as the siren call of indulgence beckons with the promise of mediocrity, I refuse to surrender to the cowardice of platitudes. I refuse to exist without truly living, to share without genuine connection, to drink without toasting to the beauty of life.

I will not win without extending a helping hand, nor take without expressing gratitude. I will not seek to magnify without embracing simplicity, nor progress without putting in the hard work. I will not obtain without merit, nor read without allowing my imagination to soar. I will not enjoy without giving, nor add without contributing.

I refuse to lose without learning or make mistakes without acknowledging them. I will not talk without listening, nor listen without seeking to understand. I will not pray without believing, nor affirm without questioning. I will not grow old without evolving or changing without intention.

I will not seek knowledge without using it to enrich my life, nor understand without delving deeper. I refuse to want without fighting for my desires or thinking without allowing my ideas to flourish. I will not demand without taking risks or live without passion.

I will not suggest without offering or receive without giving in return. I refuse to love without truly LOVING. For all these things, while they may be nourishment for our ignorance, are starvation for our souls. I choose to embrace the fullness of life, to resist the pull of stagnation, and to live with a heart filled to the brim with love and passion.

Copyright © Beatriz Esmer