The Painful Reality of Perfectionism
by Michael Doyle

There is a need to face eventually
Whether painful or not, the reality
That however much we have optimism
There is no such thing as perfectionism

At least so much as actually be perfect
There is only really the push to correct
Those things that require self-correction
It's foolish to push to achieve perfection

To seek after the mount of the unachievable 
Is to crush your soul chasing the incapable
Goals that bring only tears of self-solitude
Destroying creation and well-being with an attitude

If there was anything I'd encourage with urgency
It is the need for my daughters to embrace uncertainty
This is the only truth of life for an honest face
Imperfection allows for the human touch and trace

That makes the world somehow a bit more bearable
Knowing that when burdens are shared we're capable
Of the so much needed and the humility of so much more
The ability to accept ourselves opens the universe's door

And in opening this door, allows each to do something
Than fearing imperfection and doing just about nothing
This then is my truth and gently provided analysis
Do not restrain from error to the point of paralysis

There is nearly always time enough for self-correction
And only practiced failure comes close to that perfection
That some pretend they have and allows self-improvement
A father hugs his daughter close with this encouragement

The truth is there is a crack in just about everything
That's how the light gets in to illuminate as we sing
The song of life that pushes each of us through our days
We must not live with fear but always find our best ways

(c) July 30, 2024    Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved