Those terrified under appraising eyes for the hope of mere approval...
May yet be shocked they’ve unwittingly blocked any chance of their removal.
For, society might bluster at the sight of blood that’s common & new.
But, if you’re there under their glare, they fluster at the end they see in you.
See, you would not stand before their judgment grand, if you had not earned your spot.
A flowered wreath with fruit beneath is, reluctantly, certain it will rot.
Tend your strength & grow full length; so you stand out when you are finally bade.
Stand firm behind betters, all you young go-getters, savor this fleeting shade.
Because, when they go, you must withstand the glow of your shining mountaintop.
Soak in the sight & be leathered by light til the next wave harvests your crop.
L.B.Stowe 