sometimes we forget
that we're all people
with emotions
that can be
pummled to dust
or raised to
the sky.

sometimes we forget
that we all breathe the same
air.
gaze at the same
sunset.
live under the same
sky.

sometimes we forget
what it's like to be
encouraged.
to be told that we're
amazing.
to be told that we can
succeed because
we are
talented.

sometimes we forget
to encourage others.

sometimes we forget that
their life
is just as important
to take care of as
our life.

our flame can always use
kindling.
but if we don't
kindle another's
flame.
eventually there will be no one
left
to kindle
ours.