It can be a challenge, balancing between standing up for yourself and not stirring the pot. Knowing when to let it go and when you cannot.

I believe in your judgment- decisions are hard but it only hurts worse- 

giving away the power of choice. 

I believe in the quiet kid, both the one who knows what to say but not how to say it, and the one who thinks they have nothing to say. 

I say this because they’re each more often than not forgotten.

I believe in your dream, the one you hold close to your chest

cautioned by fear of judgment, not of failure. 

I believe in you, not if you believe in yourself, but regardless.

I believe in you, if you believe in yourself and regardless.

I believe, regardless. 

Edited by Arisha Anne Bhattacharya

Artist Statement: This poem was written at a time when I felt a little lost. I grew up a shy kid and for me, college has been about maturing into someone who can advocate for themselves when needed. This poem was written at a low point, as a message of unconditional self-love and confidence from my past and future self that I sorely needed at the time.