Elusive Ink

I wrote this for a friend of mine's Graduation present, about a month ago.

Strive
By Lindsey Ann Bledsoe

Today is an amazing day.
Your new life, finally here to stay.
You face the gates, with head held high.
You're sort of nervous, not sure why.

Gold ink, etched into your palm.
A handshake with chaotic calm.
You take a step, and sort of smirk.
The large gold man, says "get to work."

I'm here, I watch you move along.
I'm jealous that you seem so strong.
Yet, you've always been there for me,
and here for you I'll always be.

Don't be afraid, or get too stressed.
Remember, sometimes life's a mess.
Take pictures, laugh, and dance alone.
Forget the times you lost, or won.

It’s not important anymore.

“Dig deeper.”

Do you hear?
Constant whispers in your ear.
Murmuring throughout the night.
Just don’t even try to fight.

They latch onto your ears and neck.
Until your sanity is wrecked.

Eventually, it all works out.
No more failure, no more doubt.
Or, so they say. That’s what I hear.
I guess I’ve not quite gotten there.

So, all the wisdom I can share.
Is this: remember that I care.
Appreciate the joys today.
And never, ever lose your faith.