Without me, Still

Would it be selfish of me
to feel bitterness
at your constant busy-ness,
and the world you’ve built around you,
when I had opened mine to you?

I had learned to rely

and expect your presence,

like the tides that always return --
yet I found myself stranded alone.

I learned to keep steady,

to set boundaries,
to hold onto my own sense of self
and still get through.

Would it be selfish of me
to resent your absence?
The time you spent chasing your goals --
though admirable --
couldn’t some of it have been spared
for the simpler things?
For the moments we might’ve shared?

But, I also see now,
that without me, you’ve done just fine.
Maybe better, even.
And that gives me some peace,
knowing you’ve found your stride.

I feel happiness for your future

and wish you all the best, sincerely.

Whilst you cultivate your own world

I'll berate my own selfishness and naivety

thinking that I could depend on someone, 

emotionally, so easily.

Never again, so quickly.

I hope next time we meet,

I will have forgotten and forgiven,

feeling lighter, a little wiser,
and more at peace.
Till then, take care.