If you feel ashamed about how you loved someone who once loved you back,
Don't.
Don't feel embarrassed about all the corny songs,
And the cornier jokes.
Don't cower away from the memory of all those dopey, cheesy declarations.
Don't despise those desperate tears you shed, and the near- maniacal laughter you shared.
Don't try to wipe out how you once looked at each other like a pair of idiots, or cringe at the dumb doodles you drew of each other.
Don't, don't, don't.
It may have seemed stupid to the rest of the world.
It now seems stupid to you.
But at the time, you were in love and it made sense.
It still does, it's just the feelings changed.
Don't feel ashamed or embarrassed,
Because it only teaches you to fear Love when it comes again.
It curbs your capacity to love with abandon, once again.
Wisdom and experience shouldn't shrink your heart.
They should teach you to grow in grace and courage.
Because you know what the pain of an imperfect love is like,
You will strive to love bigger and better the next time round.
But for now, sweet dove, don't feel ashamed or embarrassed.

~ (04.07.23).

© Abigail Sim