If they told you it would be easy, they never walked that road,
never sang in that octave you’ve been practicing.
If they said you need to try harder, note that sheen of fear
on the forehead that says you’re better than they imagined.
No one knows your diligence, your dedication, your feverish
quest better than you do. Don’t say a word, don’t tell
what you already know about the path from here to there.