Honest

Let me rewind, to yesterday's face,

To childhood's maze, a bittersweet space.

Not bad, no, but not a gentle breeze,

Just somewhere in between, if you please.

A father's shadow, in and out he'd roam,

A mother's strength, building a loving home.

Sisters I had, no brothers to confide,

Birds and bees lessons, the world left outside.

Rent and late fees, a knowledge too deep,

A rough-hewn path, where secrets sleep.

Not learning, but love and pain entwined,

A childhood mosaic, uniquely defined.

Teenage years surged, a turbulent tide,

Mom tried to guide, but youthful pride denied.

Thought I knew all, craved love's embrace,

Then, blessed from above, a child found its place.

Yet wilder I grew, after that precious birth,

Foul deeds I embraced, losing my worth.

Honest I speak, to the core of my soul,

Lied and abandoned, lost all control.

Mistakes piled high, a mountain of shame,

No cure for the aches, the burning flame.

Wrong crowd I sought, in shadows I played,

Every action a reaction, a price to be paid.

An adult now stands, with problems that loom,

Threatening to swallow me in their gloom.

I pray to God, help others to rise,

Beyond mere rhymes, with spirit in my eyes.

Forget fleeting fame, forget fortune's gleam,

Salvation I seek, a heavenly dream.

To lead souls with me, to a brighter shore,

Presently, I heal, while burdens weigh more.

But fear holds no sway, no gun, knife, or hearse,

For God resides within, my guiding verse.

Yet troubles remain, a constant refrain,

Work, bills, relationships, life's pouring rain.

Wealth cannot mend, what's broken inside,

Nor can you, friend, where true answers hide.

Let me introduce myself, raw and sincere,

God is the only one I truly fear.