by Paula R. Hilton

Take note, you have every right to be here.
But when you assert, ask, say no, or yes
old friends, patterns, habits will disappear.

Dare to take your place. Cast off phantom fears.
Ghosts of people you used to be? Let rest.
Take note, you have every right to be here.

Vow to disappoint everyone. It’s clear—
many won’t like you in your bold new dress.
Old friends, patterns, habits will disappear.

Exist clamorously. State needs, wants. Clear
your voice. Put yourself first with trust, finesse.
Take note, you have every right to be here.

No apologies. Exist for what’s dear
to you. Be upset. Be happy. Stress less.
Old friends, habits, patterns will disappear.

Farewell to pretence. Feel joy. Be sincere.
You no longer bow down or acquiesce.
Take note, you have every right to be here.
Old friends, habits, patterns will disappear.


Paula R. Hilton| paularhilton.com|facebook.com/author.paularhilton/ | @paula.r.hilton/

Paula R. Hilton is a novelist who explores the ways deeply flawed people can still be forces for good. Her fiction, essays, and poetry have appeared on Feminine Collective, Dear Damsels, The Sunlight Press and NPR’s This I Believe websiteas well as in a number of literary journals, including The Tulane ReviewKalliope, and Writing In A Woman’s Voice. Hilton’s debut novel, Little Miss Chaos, was selected as a 2016 Best Indie Teen Read by Kirkus

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