Poems by Lauren Bowman

I don’t need to be the sun;
the center of it all.
Always present.
Always burning.

I mean, have you seen
how beautifully the fireflies dance
on warm summer nights?

Give me that peace.
That light.
That choice.
The ability to surround myself in darkness,
or to subtly, yet brilliantly
glow.

Let them miss you.
Let them wonder what wild joy you’re chasing,
why you didn’t think to invite them along.
Let them hear your laughter from afar,
watch as it pulls the sun from the sky,
marvel at how easily you become that light.
Let them yearn to be your moon,
long for a chance to reflect the warmth you provide,
admire how you can be so vibrant and alive
without them beside you.

Let them miss you.
Let yourself learn how okay you are
on your own.