More than an Image

Here's a short poem I wrote quickly about the confidence I wish I had.

Independent
but loyal

Free-spirited
but sensible

Content
but willing to work for the change I need to see

They call me reckless,
a hazard.

"You're inconsistent!"
accusations are made to tear at my soul
but I know better.

Life is everything but simple
and I intend to live it
Fearless I'll face the future
which is like a roller coaster without a track

Finally I am satisfied with myself,
Though criticized for my refusal.

Refusal to fill a mold,
to fit a label,
to be one thing.

I will decide

who I love

what I believe

and I will never, ever, ever apologize
for how I feel.

They want to contain the storm
that thunderous rage
the one that comes with my emotions.

I will not be tied down!

My image?
That is not me.
I am always more
and that's okay.