A poem I wrote entitled, “A Simple Change of View”

Here is a poem I wrote after seeing some content on LinkedIn of people being cruel to members of the LGBTQIA+ community for posting on that platform. Some of the posts had comments like, "This isn't what LinkedIn is for" and "Why should I care if you painted your nails with your son?"

Remember, some posts may seem personal but they actually support and inspire members of that professional community, and they are welcome and encouraged there. People aren't always just motivated by performance metrics and "pep talks" about how to survive a tough day in the office. Sometimes we need to connect with people on a deeper level to be successful.

People have diverse interests and many care deeply about social justice and empathy. I find the "leaders" who struggle to embrace inclusion and support for these "non work-related topics" are often the very same manager who create an unhealthy workplace culture. And personally, those are not the type of leaders I will ever work for again.

So to those of you who may have just had a baby, overcame an addiction or recently supported low-income institutions in our communities, I salute you for including your personal accomplishments online. For as long as these posts are inclusive and good-natured, they always have a safe space with me.

Empathy is vital to creating meaningful connections, so try stepping outside your comfort zone once in a while and being an ally even if something doesn't apply to you. Sometimes a simple "thumbs up" or word of encouragement can boost a post and help it reach the individuals who need to see it.

On that note, I hope you like my poem. I would love to hear if it inspired you in any way. Thanks for reading and have the most beautiful day, friends.

“A simple change of view”

So what is it that stops you,

that prevents you from moving on?

Do not dwell on yesterday,

that time has come and gone.

Let go of things that hold you back,

the limits and the pain,

free your heart, open your mind,

a new perspective you will gain.

Don’t live for others,

or limitations they demand,

what you will or will not become,

is yours to understand.

For today is no longer yesterday,

this path we now can choose,

to fulfill our dreams and passions,

constrictions we must lose.

These things aren’t always easy,

but how magical it could be,

to live in a kinder, more accepting world,

where all are truly free.

We must forgive what's come before us,

for too few were aware,

that human rights and equality,

weighed more than "thoughts and prayers."

Our world’s ready to be different,

it’s time we make things right,

to live and let others thrive,

and finally stop our fight.

So take a breath, go outside,

allow yourself to smile,

try enjoying life and knowing that,

acceptance is in style.

For today is no longer yesterday,

and today won’t last forever,

use the time you’re given wisely,

to live for and howsoever.

You see, it’s about being kinder,

to everyone we meet,

a world that’s full of differences,

is a world that’s more complete.

My wish for you is simple,

maybe more than you’d believe,

to lower your guard and share your heart,

may love, you too receive.

My final thoughts are simple,

this change is up to you,

it’s just the thing that’s missing

a simple change of view.