The Same Degree of Value

I see them

But I'm not seen

I hear them

But I'm not heard

I know them

But few know me

I understand them

But I'm not understood

They lead

I support

They are the spotlight

I am the shadow

People want to be near them

I'm in the corner, alone

They are energetic and witty

I'm subdued and quiet

They are celebrated

I stand back inconspicuously

They are noticeably beautiful

My beauty lives an invisible existence

Two opposing worlds

Both so exceedingly valuable

Commentary:

I had to write this to let some things out that I've been dealing with today. It's a cycle I have to go through every once in a while. Poetry has its way of cheering me up, or at least helping me express myself. I know better than to devalue the things I've learned as being the person in the shadows/background. Yes, those who are successful and admired often have great reason to be recognized, but that shouldn't be good cause to make me feel less important. My successes aren't so visible, but worth celebrating, whether I'm the only member of the party or not.

It seems to be a position to hate: always being in the shadow. It does have its moments of loneliness, and, as I've often called it, that perpetual sense of some sort of unfulfilled longing, but it also has its advantages. It has provided me a keen sense of empathy due to my ability to asses environments and often individuals. It has given me time to be more familiar with myself and deal with my emotions, which can go extremely deep. I could go on, but I'm not here to write an essay. Seen or not seen, there's much to be appreciated, and I hope you understand that no one is worthless.

Thank you.

Taking care of my disabled brother.