Again

The first time it happened, I was

–Scared.

–Terrified.

–Insecure.

–Afraid.

Now here I am, taking that step

Again,

and again,

and again,

and again.

What's happened to me–

My young, innocent self?

Now get your head out of the gutter,

I know what you're thinking I mean, and that's not it.

I meant the first time I

–swam in a swim meet.

–entered my art in some competition.

–submitted my writing to a magazine.

–tried to put together a portfolio.

Now here I am, taking those steps

Again,

and again,

and again,

and again.

I've grown and learned–

I've been hurt and I've recovered.