When You Grow Wings

When you grow wings and fly away,

To cities lit in neon grey,

Don't forget the path you came —

The quiet roots that bore your name.

Remember laughter, simple joys,

And childhood's unassuming noise.

Your parents' hands, now weather-worn,

Once held you close the day you were born.

They gave you dreams and watched you soar,

While hiding aches, and sleeping on the floor.

Their silent prayers, their hopeful gaze,

Will guide you through life's complex maze.

You'll chase success — and chase it far,

Measure your worth by job and car.

But pause, dear child, and ask what's true:

Does gold still shine when love leaves you?

Let purpose be your guiding star,

Not just how bright your riches are.

Be kind — to those with wrinkled skin,

The stories they hold are worlds within.

Don't scroll past pain, don't swipe past grief,

A moment’s grace brings hearts relief.

Lend an ear, a helping hand,

Across this vast and diverse land.

Respect the soil, the trees, the sky —

They're not just backdrops passing by.

In endless growth, don't lose your soul,

A bigger world is not the goal.

Guard nature's gifts, from sea to shore,

For generations to explore.

Love deeply — not just for thrill.

Be loyal when the winds stand still.

Forgive, not weakly — but so strong,

That bitterness won’t last too long.

Embrace the flaws, the broken parts,

And mend them with compassionate arts.

When you become a mother, a dad,

Remember the love your parents had.

Visit the ones who once walked slow —

And held your hand when you didn’t know.

Share wisdom's light, a gentle gleam,

And live out every heartfelt dream.

Speak gently to the hearts that break,

Let kindness be the trail you make.

For someday soon, when you're the old,

What you gave returns tenfold.

The seeds you sow, with care and grace,

Will blossom in life's hallowed space.