From the Outside Looking In

Take the time out
to step outside of yourself
when you become besides yourself
to determine the elements 
ascertain essential features
of your soul
from the outside looking in
deep within
is when you realize
that you are not the person who ratifies
the condescending remarks 
chuckling at them approvingly meanwhile 
from the outside looking in
deep within
a separate portion of who you are ceases to be seen
because you have laughed 
for too long
at the contemptuous rudeness of others
and remained silent 
during improper imputations of guilt
saving face
dishonoring your spirit
until you have become too besides yourself
to clutch yourself.


~LolaBee