His problem is that
we are trying to help him
so more people
will like him—
because he is already
exactly
who he is.
His problem is that
he doesn’t understand
we criticize him
because we care—
because we want others to see
how special he is
just as he is—
which is why
he should change.
We say people grow best
when they are accepted
just as they are.
They say
if we stop correcting him
he will think
he is fine
just the way he is.
I once was
never good enough
and couldn’t
be myself.
I met someone
who loved me,
accepted me
just the way I was—
and I accepted her
just the way she was.
Because of her acceptance,
I changed
and became
more fully
who I am.
Because I am accepted
just as I am—
I can change
with you.