Watch Yourself

I go in one direction

But walls are thrown up

I go in another

And I am held up by questions

This has become a game

Of dodge-ball

A cat and mouse chase

I'm tired of dodging

Now this has to stop

It’s becoming a habit 

Stepping lightly

Being careful, silent and unseen

What does it matter what I do?

What does it matter to you?

How is it affecting you?

Why the constant focus?

Like I'm a prisoner

About to flee

From the confines of my jail cell

I'm not.

So why the constant attention?

You and I are not in the same arena

I'm not competing with you

I'm no competition to you

There’s a fine line

Between care and invasion

The first is all right

But the second is crossing that line

Be wary before you take that step

Measure those words gram by gram

Or you’ll feel regret

One wrong move

And I'm going to have to change myself

Don’t force me to take that step

I find it hard to show anger

Instead, it slowly simmers

Aggression is not in my nature

It takes a lot to raise my voice

Right now, you still have a choice

Worry more about yourself

Than you do about me

I can clearly feel

The effect this is having on me

Direct all that attention

To something useful at least

Look in the mirror this time, please!

Turn that magnifying glass around, this once

Don’t put someone else down

For putting in hard work

When you yourself

Don’t show the same diligence

Wanting to be at the top

Doesn’t mean putting a stop

To others' efforts

Focus on yourself

Not on everyone else

Being this competitive

Will not help

Take it from me

It’s not the best sign

Of mental health

Looking at you

I can see

That you have no stability

Or mental peace

Pick yourself up and strengthen up

Learn to face every curve ball

That life throws at you

Be aware of the ripple effect

In your universe of people

Don’t spread hate and anger

Don’t let jealousy rise

And don’t let it bite

Learn to be peaceful

Only care about your own work

And be less flustered

There’s nothing to get riled up about

Around here

Just be peaceful

Keep your nose to yourself

It doesn’t belong in somebody else’s business

Watch yourself.